Indulge in time-honored Filipino healing arts and ancient techniques at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Manila, where exclusive global healing practices come together in a haven of tranquility. 
 
Dagdagay is an authentic Igorot/Cordilleran leg and foot massage that uses two bamboo or rattan sticks to stimulate the soles and cleanse and purify the feet. It begins with a soothing foot soak using healing herbs in a huge clay vessel, and is capped with a relaxing herbal foot wrap and massage. The 50-minute treatment is offered at PHP 2,480.50. 
 
Hilot is an intriguing, healing/curative therapy dating back to the 5th century. It comes from the Tagalog word hilot meaning to rub, touch, massage and caress, and had hitherto only been practiced in remote rural areas in the country. Knowledge is gained via apprenticeship through generations of families of healers, and Mandarin Oriental, Manila is delighted to be able to offer this traditional and authentic treatment to spa guests.

Practitioners of hilot are renowned for their ability to reset joints such as fingers, knees, ankles and metacarpal bones that have been dislocated or sprained. The therapeutic hilot massage establishes equilibrium in the body with deep-tissue massage and smooth, flowing strokes, restoring health and well-being.  The treatment, priced at PhP3,833.50, lasts for an hour and 30 minutes.

Bentosa, an ancient ‘cupping’ therapy originally derived from China and now practiced by many cultures around the world,  stimulates the nervous system, activates and balances blood flow and circulation, dissipates cold spots in the body, removes toxins and restores the body to a balanced state.   This 30-minute treatment, an add-on perk to most treatments, is priced at PhP2,706.00.

Hilot Experience, a two-hour combination of hilot and bentosa to promote natural healing and well-being, is available for PhP4,609.00.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Manila is situated at the hotel’s topmost floors and is open 9 am to 11 pm, Mondays through Sundays. Advanced bookings are highly recommended to ensure availability. For information on special Spa packages or group program, contact the Spa Concierge at (02) 750 8888 extension 1901 or 1902. Gift certificates are also ideal gifts for spa enthusiasts.