Local and foreign tourists who visit the Nabuclod ecotourism adventure site in Floridablanca, Pampanga could now look forward to a relaxing wellness massage after a physically challenging visit as the Pampanga Provincial Manpower Training Center (PMTC) recently completed its training on wellness hilot massage for Aetas.
PMTC Officer-in-Charge Francis Maslog said that 19 Aeta residents of the upland community underwent the five-day skills training on arm, foot, hand, head, facial, leg and back wellness hilot massage conducted by the center.
Maslog said that the activity aims to provide additional source of income to the Aetas and further boost the development and promotion of barangay Nabuclod as an ideal eco-tourism destination.
One of the priority projects of Governor Lilia G. Pineda’s administration, the training cum livelihood project is in close coordination with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), Public Employment Services Office (PESO) and the Provincial Cooperative and Entrepreneurial Development Office (PCEDO).
“The training graduates are scheduled to further undergo the required medical check-up at the Romana Pangan District Hospital in Floridablanca,” Maslog said.
More so, the PCEDO will provide the necessary assistance to ensure the organization of Nabuclod Massage Therapist Association and train its members on entrepreneurship development.
“In the meantime that pertinent documents and requirements are being readied; the “hilots” will cater to visitors of Nabuclod on a donation basis with the View Deck 2 serving as their temporary massage center,” Maslog stated.
He added that once the said association is formally organized and necessary requirements and trainings are completed, corresponding massage fees shall be charged and the center’s management and supervision be turned over to the concerned indigenous peoples in the community. (Erlinda T. Yutuc, Pampanga PIO)