Calatagan, Batangas—In the heart of this coastal paradise lies Nawa Wellness, a sanctuary that elegantly intertwines herbalism, authentic health regimens, and prehistoric Filipino gastronomy. It’s not just a wellness retreat; it’s a revitalizing journey to our rich cultural heritage. And who’s behind this magical experience? None other than the Araw Hospitality Group, champions of time-tested wellness and humanity’s earliest known form of medicine: herbalism1.
Araw Aruga: A Social Initiative with Heart
What's Inside
Araw Hospitality Group isn’t your typical hospitality entity. They’re more like wellness wizards with a mission. Their social initiative, Araw Aruga, goes beyond plush beds and spa treatments. It’s about giving back, empowering voices, and celebrating our indigenous brothers and sisters. And boy, did they deliver!
The Incredible IP Women Retreat
From May 6 to 8, 2024, Nawa Wellness welcomed an extraordinary group of women—leaders and representatives from different Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs). These fierce ladies, Tessie of Isnag ICC, Arlene and Maribel of Sama Bajau ICC, and Daisyrie of Dumagat ICC, deserved a break. They’ve been fighting for their communities, advocating for change, and dreaming big. Araw Aruga invited them to a pamper retreat, and boy, did they soak up every moment.
Spa Bliss and Beyond
Picture this: Tessie, Arlene, Maribel, and Daisyrie immersed themselves in Nawa Wellness’s spa wonderland. The air smelled of healing herbs, and the treatments were pure magic. The Haplos massage? Like a gentle embrace from Mother Nature herself. And those all-natural facials? Instant glow-up! But Nawa Wellness isn’t just about pampering; it’s about connecting with nature’s secrets.
Sustainable Livelihood and Healing Hands
Guided by skilled wellness therapists, these women delved into a livelihood workshop. Their mission? Exploring the fundamentals of traditional Filipino Hilot massage. It’s more than kneading muscles; it’s a legacy passed down through generations. As they learned, they also shared stories—their advocacies, struggles, and dreams. These women are warriors, fighting for representation, education, and equal opportunities for IPs across the Philippines.
Cultural Night: Where Magic Happens
The retreat’s grand finale? A special cultural night! Picture Daisyrie reciting powerful spoken poetry, her words echoing resilience and hope. Maribel and Arlene danced, their movements telling stories of the sea and the stars. And Tessie? She twirled, her traditional attire a vibrant tapestry of Cordillera culture. Each performance was a piece of their ICC’s soul, a testament to their strength.
A Ripple Effect in Society
By the end of the retreat, tears flowed freely. These women felt seen, heard, and motivated. But their work isn’t done. Discrimination, education gaps, and cultural preservation—there’s much to tackle. Araw Hospitality Group stands with them, committed to supporting the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). Together, they’ll build sustainable ecosystems, one healing touch at a time.
So next time you’re at Nawa Wellness, remember these fierce IP women. They’re rewriting history, one spa treatment, one dance, one dream at a time. Araw Aruga, you’ve touched our hearts!
The program culminated with a special cultural night, where each woman was invited to present a piece of their ICC’s culture and art. Daisyrie of Dumagat ICC performed a stirring work of spoken poetry, while Maribel and Arlene of Sama Bajau ICC shared different forms of their cultural dances. Not to be outdone, Tessie of Isnag ICC also presented a dance and explained the meaningful attire and traditions of her cultural community.
The program culminated with a special cultural night, where each woman was invited to present a piece of their ICC’s culture and art. Daisyrie of Dumagat ICC performed a stirring work of spoken poetry, while Maribel and Arlene of Sama Bajau ICC shared different forms of their cultural dances. Not to be outdone, Tessie of Isnag ICC also presented a dance and explained the meaningful attire and traditions of her cultural community.
This event was just the start of bigger initiatives that will have a positive societal impact rooted in sincere connections, empowered voices, and shared cultures. In this light, Araw Hospitality Group, through their Araw Aruga program, is committed to supporting the initiatives of the NCIP and looks forward to building more sustainable ecosystems that can have a ripple effect in society.
