Watsons and Diabetes Philippines join forces to fight the country’s growing diabetes challenge

At a time when nearly 4.7 million Filipino adults are living with diabetes, health and wellness leader Watsons Philippines has partnered with Diabetes Philippines Inc. (DPI) to deliver stronger, more accessible, and more credible diabetes care across the country.

- BY JASMINE TUAÑO

The collaboration was formalized during a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, signaling a united front against the disease that continues to impact the lives of millions of Filipinos.

The partnership aims to redefine what a pharmacy can offer, transforming it into a center not only for medicine but also for proactive, professional support. Watsons, known for its extensive footprint and trusted presence in communities, will boost its medicine supply for diabetes management while providing its pharmacists with specialized training from DPI.

Why the partnership matters

According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the Western Pacific Region, which includes the Philippines, is seeing a rapid increase in diabetes cases. As of 2024, about 7.5% of the adult Filipino population is affected. That is over 4.7 million individuals navigating a lifelong condition that demands consistent care and understanding.

It is a challenge that calls for more than just availability of medication. Watsons recognizes that this demands accessible education, reliable pharmacist support, and a community that recognizes diabetes management as a shared responsibility. This is where the Watsons-DPI partnership steps in.