The Department of Health in the Philippines is currently working to promote the nation as a major health tourism destination.

With hordes of people seeking cheaper medical treatment abroad, the Philippines is hoping to market itself among other popular destinations, such as India.

Around 300 exhibitors, both local and international, are currently attending a showcase of healthcare and travel providers in Mandaluyong City, where a forum will tackle issues such as road access between hotels and hospitals.

An official of the Quezon City Chamber of Commerce said that, although the country's medical tourism industry is still small, it is finally beginning to grow.

"Our government is repackaging the country as a preferred health and wellness tourism destination," Hernando Delizo said in a statement, according to the sunstar.com.

The Philippines has received international acclaim for its wellness programmes, including a number of prestigious awards for its spas.

Tourism secretary Joseph Ace Durano told the Manila Bulletin: "These recognitions are indications that the Philippines' wellness programmes are of excellent quality and are getting great support from our neighbouring countries.

"This all the more motivates us to continue to develop our current spa and wellness programmes and build on new ones."

Both Quezon City and Mandaluyong City have a number of major hotels, hospitals and spa and wellness centres.

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