Roundtable Discussion on Indigenous Health and Wellness in Baguio City

Indigenous healers from around the Cordillera region were enthusiastic in sharing their knowledge and practices during a Roundtable Discussion on Indigenous Health and Wellness (IHW) held on November 14, 2024 in Baguio City. They shared about their experiences on the use of medicinal plants, use of water, healing massage, and prayers and rituals.

Participants also discussed and agreed on ten key advocacy messages on indigenous health and wellness that will be put forward in various avenues. These include:

1. Implementation of existing national and regional health policies and its adaptation to the local situation; 
2. Recognition of the efficacy of IHW practices and integration into the mainstream health care system;
3. Appreciation of the unseen and the holistic nature of IHW practices; 
4. Conduct of more research and documentation on IHW; 
5. Conduct of more educational activities on IHW;
6. Promotion of community and home gardens; 
7. Recognition of sacred sites and promotion of traditional environmental conservation practices;
8. Support for indigenous peoples’ right to practice their IHW particularly home birthing and traditional birth attendants by crafting policies;
9. Recognition of indigenous peoples’ ownership of the resources and knowledge over medicinal plants and other natural health products and share the benefits and
10. Prioritization of a preventive and promotive community – based health care system instead of focusing on curative and hospital – centered one.