Hilot is the traditional Filipino art of healing massage — passed down through generations of manghihilot in towns and barrios. Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II is the TESDA qualification that turns this tradition into a certified wellness skill for spas, resorts and home service.
- Level
- NC II
- Sector
- Health & Social Care
- Training
- Varies by provider
- Assessment fee
- Ask the center
- Free online course
- Not yet
What is Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II?
In English, hilot is usually described as traditional Filipino massage or healing touch. It combines massage strokes, stretching and the use of oils — often coconut oil and herbal preparations such as banana leaves — to relax the body and restore a sense of balance. In everyday life, Filipinos go to a manghihilot for muscle pain, sprains, tiredness or simply to relax.
The TESDA qualification focuses on hilot as wellness massage, not as medical treatment: planning a client’s wellness program, preparing the client and the space, applying hilot massage techniques, and giving after-care advice.
What you will learn
The qualification covers the competencies to:
- Plan the hilot wellness program of the client
- Provide pre-service activities (consultation, preparation of client and area)
- Apply hilot wellness massage techniques
- Provide post-advice and after-care to clients
On top of these, every TESDA qualification includes basic competencies (workplace communication, teamwork, professionalism, occupational health and safety) and common competencies for the sector.
How to get your Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II certificate
- TrainEnroll at a TESDA-registered training center or school (ask about scholarships), and use the free online courses to study the theory.
- Prepare your requirementsApplication form, Self-Assessment Guide for Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II, and three colored passport-size photos.
- Book your competency assessmentChoose a TESDA-accredited assessment center that is accredited for Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II. Confirm the current fee with the center.
- Pass and claim your NCIf you are found competent, apply for certification and claim your Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II National Certificate. It is valid for 5 years.
Full guide to TESDA assessment centers, requirements and fees →
Jobs you can apply for
- Hilot (wellness) massage therapist
- Spa and resort therapist
- Home-service wellness therapist
- Wellness business owner
Filipino spa therapists — including hilot practitioners — work in hotels, resorts and spas abroad. Some countries require a local massage license; check before you apply.
Hilot vs. Massage Therapy NC II
Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II is rooted in Filipino tradition. Massage Therapy NC II focuses on international techniques such as Swedish massage and Shiatsu. Many therapists take both to offer a wider menu of services.
Hilot is a wellness practice. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment — a responsible therapist refers clients with injuries or illnesses to a doctor.
Is Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II right for you?
- You want to keep a Filipino tradition alive as a profession
- You enjoy hands-on work and caring for people
- You want to work in spas and resorts or offer home service
- You already do hilot informally and want a recognized certificate
Frequently asked questions
What is hilot in English?
Hilot is traditional Filipino healing massage. In English it is often called Filipino massage or traditional healing touch; a practitioner is called a manghihilot.
Is there a TESDA course for hilot?
Yes. Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II is a TESDA qualification taught at registered training centers. It certifies you as a hilot wellness massage therapist.
Is hilot the same as massage therapy?
They overlap, but Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II is based on Filipino traditional massage, while Massage Therapy NC II covers techniques such as Swedish and Shiatsu.
Can hilot cure illnesses?
The TESDA qualification treats hilot as a wellness massage for relaxation and well-being. It is not a substitute for medical care.
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Sources: Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II course description. Disclaimer: Courses TESDA is an independent guide, not TESDA. Information may contain errors or change without notice — always verify with official sources before making decisions.