Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of people around the world, and based on research conducted by the International Diabetes Foundation (DF), it is projected to rise to 254 million in 20250 vs the current 215 million people who are living with diabetes now.
The Philippines, one of the 38 countries in this region is facing a growing diabetes problem. As of 2024, out of a total adult population of over 71 million, there's an approximate 7.5% living with diabetes, and that's roughly 4.7 million Filipinos.
In response to the number of growing diabetes cases in the country and the need for more proactive health interventions, Watsons Philippines, has partnered with Diabetes Philippines Inc (DPI) to amplify efforts in awareness, early detection and chronic disease management. The partnership aims to make credible health information and professional care more accessible, especially at the community level.
A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony was held at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, with key executives and leaders from both organizations in attendance. Representatives from Watsons includes Joeweeh Liao, Director or Health Business Unit, Finance and Property Development; Maria Adelfa De Ramos, Sales Operations Director; and Ma. Corina Marte, Director for People and Organization Development. Meanwhile, Dr. Fatma Tiu, President; Dr. Reynaldo Rosalez, Treasurer; Dr. Luinio Tongson; and Ms. Leyden Florido, members of the board respectively, represents Diabetes Philippines.
"This collaboration with Diabetes Philippines brings us one step closer to making quality healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes, more accessible to every Filipino. We're not only investing in education and early detection. While doing so, we are also strengthening our stores by beefing up our stocks and expanding our range of diabetes medicines and health essentials. We want every Watsons store to be a reliable source of support for people living with or at risk of diabetes," said Joeweeh Liao.
Under this partnership, Watsons Pharmacists will undergo specialized training facilitated by Diabetes Philippines, expanding their roles from conventional pharmacy practice to consultative, proactive care in managing diabetes and its complications. The program focuses on disease prevention, improving medication adherence and achieving treatment outcomes.
"Diabetes Philippines is deeply committed to improving the lives of Filipinos living with diabetes," said Dr. Fatma Tiu. "We believe that education and early intervention can go a long way in preventing complications. This collaborations with Watsons allows us to bring that message closer to the public by equipping pharmacists, often the first point of contact, with the right tools and knowledge to help."
Klook.comThis initiative supports Watsons Philippines' broader mission to be the go-to destination for health and wellness by providing expert pharmacist advice, ensuring sufficient and readily available stocks and promoting sustainable health practices. It also forms as part of Watsons' "Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great" brand promise, now brought to life through meaningful tie-ups.
"Our goal has always been to give back to the community. Through this partnership, we're helping our pharmacy teams gain a deeper sense of purpose. They're not just dispensing medicine, they're helping people live longer, healthier lives through confident, consultative care," said Ma. Corina Marte of Watsons Philippines.
"When people walk into our stores, we want them to feel that Watsons is more than just a place to shop, it's where good health begins. We are turning everyday visits into opportunities for health empowerment," added Maria Adelfa De Ramos of Watsons Philippines.
The partnership was launched in time for National Diabetes Awareness Month this July, and this is just a step towards creating a healthier, better-informed Philippines, one customer and one community at a time.
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