Experts are advocating for the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) into the Philippine healthcare system, as highlighted in a symposium hosted by the Philippine Association of Chinese Studies and the Kaisa Heritage Center. The event emphasized the historical significance and therapeutic potential of TCM in the country, underscoring the need for collaboration to further its practice. Dr. Cho-chiong Tan, a prominent figure in the field, discussed the history of acupuncture in the Philippines, noting its benefits in stimulating the nervous system, improving blood flow, and enhancing overall bodily function.
Acknowledging key figures like Dr. Lilia Marquinez-Palanca and initiatives such as the Traditional Medicine Program initiated by the Department of Health in 1992, the symposium shed light on the groundwork laid for the eventual enactment of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act in 1997. Dr. Isidro Sia, from the Integrative Medicine for Alternative Healthcare Systems (INAM), elaborated on the organization’s contributions to TCM development, particularly in training and promoting various modalities like acupuncture, acupressure, ventosa, and qigong. INAM played a pivotal role in shaping the legislative landscape through the creation of the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care.
Master Chui-Cheng Kong delved into the lifestyle aspects of TCM, focusing on medicinal diets and health-preserving exercises. Kong highlighted the integration of herbs and foodstuffs in TCM diets for both nutritional and therapeutic purposes, as well as the principles behind TCM exercises that emphasize individualization, moderation, and the mind-body-breath connection. Dr. Liang Guanghan, an Associate Professor from Sun Yat-sen University, explored the potential for collaborative efforts between China and the Philippines in advancing TCM. Liang emphasized TCM as a shared wisdom among Asian communities, evolving uniquely in the Philippines with regional distinctions, and called for multi-level cooperation in research, production, and marketing of traditional medicine.
The symposium’s insights underscore the growing awareness of healthy lifestyles and nature-centric approaches to well-being, signaling a shift towards holistic healthcare practices. The integration of TCM into the Philippine healthcare system not only aligns with historical precedents and legislative frameworks but also presents opportunities for cross-cultural collaborations and knowledge sharing. By leveraging the expertise of key stakeholders, promoting training programs, and fostering sustainable initiatives, the integration of TCM can lead to a more comprehensive and patient-centric healthcare approach in the Philippines.
- The symposium highlighted the historical significance and therapeutic potential of TCM in the Philippines, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to advance its integration into the healthcare system.
- Key figures like Dr. Cho-chiong Tan and Dr. Isidro Sia shed light on the development of TCM in the country, tracing its roots and legislative milestones.
- Lifestyle aspects of TCM, including medicinal diets and health-preserving exercises, were discussed by Master Chui-Cheng Kong, pointing towards holistic approaches to well-being.
- Dr. Liang Guanghan emphasized the potential for China-Philippine collaborations in TCM, advocating for multi-level cooperation in research, production, and marketing of traditional medicine.
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