What was expected to be a calm wrap-up of a three-day wellness mission turned into a full-scale health drive as 551 people lined up for chiropractic, acupuncture, and ventosa therapies offered by the city government in partnership with the SMIC Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Inc.
On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the final stretch of the Acupuncture Medical Mission filled the Ormoc City Superdome with clients who came early, hoping to avail of the free treatments. The initiative, which formed part of the city’s Nutrition and Wellness Month 2025 celebration, was initially designed to serve up to 150 people per day. However, organizers allowed walk-ins to be accommodated after witnessing the surge in turnout.
Overwhelming response to final day of free therapy
The Local Government Unit of Ormoc and the SMIC Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Inc. delivered wellness services that included acupuncture, chiropractic massage, and ventosa therapy. All procedures were performed by certified practitioners from the visiting Chinese delegation, with assistance from local wellness volunteers.
Across the three-day mission, the turnout far exceeded expectations:
- July 14: Chiropractor – 82, Acupuncture – 139, Ventosa – 143
- July 15: Chiropractor – 95, Acupuncture – 247, Ventosa – 194
- July 16: Chiropractor – 106, Acupuncture – 262, Ventosa – 183
The numbers highlight the growing public interest in alternative wellness treatments. Organizers had to extend service hours, especially on the final day, to accommodate the large volume of walk-in patients.
Attendees described the treatments as soothing and effective. Many of them queued hours before the doors opened. Volunteers and health staff monitored the area to ensure a smooth flow of patients despite the crowd.
The medical mission, which launched on July 14, was personally inaugurated by Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez inside the same venue. Gomez said that public access to wellness treatments remains a key priority under the city’s preventive health agenda. On Day 1, she personally welcomed clients and spoke with guests from the SMIC Institute, underscoring her administration’s commitment to both modern and traditional healing systems.
Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez awards Chinese medicine institute for health impact
Following the final treatments on Wednesday, a recognition ceremony was held at the Ormoc City Museum, where plaques of appreciation were presented to SMIC Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Inc. for their exceptional service throughout the event. Mayor Gomez led the awarding, commending the group for their hands-on involvement and cultural exchange that helped Ormocanons experience an alternative route to wellness.
City officials said the group’s willingness to exceed the daily limit was a testament to their commitment to community healing. Gomez remarked that these types of missions not only heal the body but also strengthen ties between Ormoc and its global medical partners.
Also present during the earlier leg of the mission was SP Member Ari Larrazabal, who helped oversee logistical support. He noted that wellness initiatives like this align with the city council’s long-term goals of making Ormoc a model for integrated public health.
Residents responded with gratitude, with many asking if the program would be held again before year-end. As of publishing, the city government has not made announcements about future sessions, though officials hinted that the strong turnout may lead to a repeat event.
Chinese medicine as part of Ormoc’s wellness strategy
Traditional Chinese medicine has long been valued for its natural and non-invasive approach. This year’s celebration of Nutrition and Wellness Month in Ormoc expanded its theme by incorporating Eastern healing practices to complement modern healthcare. Acupuncture and ventosa therapy are said to reduce stress, improve circulation, and manage pain without the need for medication.
Medical staff involved in the mission reported that many patients presented with complaints related to fatigue, muscle tension, and chronic headaches. Most patients experienced relief after just one session, with several requesting referrals to clinics that offer similar services.
Organizers emphasized that, although the mission was free, each patient received a brief consultation and a signed consent form prior to undergoing any therapy. SMIC representatives stated that they were impressed by how receptive the Ormocanons were to traditional medicine and that they are open to further collaborations in the future.
Meanwhile, health workers from the City Health Office said they are gathering feedback from beneficiaries to assess the impact of the mission. Preliminary surveys showed high satisfaction ratings and a call for regular access to wellness services beyond the annual celebration.
Demand for future sessions increases following record turnout
By Wednesday afternoon, the Superdome’s waiting area remained packed with hopeful walk-ins. Though the service was expected to end mid-day, organizers allowed therapists to continue well into the late afternoon to meet the demand.
One volunteer described the turnout as the biggest they’ve seen in any public health event this year. He said that, unlike flu shots or check-ups, wellness services like acupuncture often make people feel cared for, which explains the emotional response from the community.
This year’s mission closed without any incident, but as the final chairs were packed away and tables cleared, many residents asked the same question: When will the next one be?
With over 200 treated on the final day and a city grateful for relief and recognition, Ormoc’s wellness story may only just be getting started.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.