Spa operators to revive org

CEBU, Philippines - Spa operator Johnie Lim is calling industry operators in Cebu to join hands in re-creating an organization that would help strengthen the lucrative wellness industry in Cebu.

Lim, founder of Body & Sole Franchise Corporation, one of the largest spa operators in the country, said he is leading the movement to resurrect the Spa Wellness Association of Cebu (SWAC) which has been dormant for a while now.

“We need a unifying organization to act as the mouthpiece of the industry. I am the one calling the shots for now. We will be inviting interested spa operators to join the group and we will have an election of officers this May 2017,” Lim said.

Lim, is the founding president of the SWAC, but the organization has been inactive for several years due to internal conflict among members.

“Because I am in this industry for the long haul, I am taking the cudgel to revive it. After all I was the first president and during my time we had put the industry in the best light,” said Lim.

Lim announced efforts to revive SWAC after the Cebu Health and Wellness Council (CHWC) urged players of the spa sector to be active again.

CHWC vice chairperson of dental sector Clarissa Pe, said that it is vital for the spa sector to have a stronger voice, especially this time that Cebu's positioning as wellness destination is gaining momentum.

“We are hoping to resurrect SWAC. We need them,” said Pe.

The need to create an organization is also needed for the industry to take part and avail of the government’s support.

Pe added that a strong industry voice is needed in order to pressure the government to blow up the potential of the Philippines as a total retirement, wellness, and medical tourism hub. (FREEMAN)