A nationwide campaign offering free diabetes screening rolls out across the country this April, as Watsons Philippines and Diabetes Philippines, Inc. renew a partnership aimed at reaching millions of undiagnosed Filipinos.
The initiative, which begins in 22 participating Watsons stores, is designed to expand early detection and improve access to basic healthcare services amid rising diabetes cases in the country.
“This is more than just a formal partnership. It represents a shared commitment to confront one of the most pressing health challenges of our time,” Dr. Fatma Tiu, president of Diabetes Philippines, said during a press conference announcing the program.
Health authorities estimate that about 4.7 million Filipinos are living with diabetes, equivalent to roughly 7.5 percent of the population. However, Tiu said a significant portion remains undiagnosed or inadequately treated, increasing the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, dialysis, blindness and even leg amputation.
According to the Department of Health, diabetes has risen sharply among the country’s leading causes of death, climbing from ninth place to fifth.
The program forms part of the “Stop Diabetes” campaign, a broader strategy led by Diabetes Philippines focusing on screening, treatment, optimal management of related conditions and promotion of healthier lifestyles.
“We intend to look for new cases of diabetes and screen for their complications early. By bringing screening and treatment services closer to communities, we will make healthcare more accessible, more proactive, and more responsive,” Tiu said.
Participating Watsons branches will serve as community health hubs offering free blood glucose and blood pressure checks, body mass index assessments, on-site doctor consultations, and pharmacist counseling.
Watsons officials said the initiative leverages the company’s network of more than 1,200 stores nationwide to extend healthcare services beyond traditional clinical settings.
“Accessibility is a right, not a privilege. By leveraging our nationwide footprint, we are bringing hope and tangible services to Filipinos by ensuring that geography is no longer a barrier to health,” said Cecille Uy, health business unit director of Watsons Philippines.
Uy said the partnership goes beyond awareness campaigns and focuses on practical, everyday healthcare support. “Through our partnership with Diabetes Philippines, we are strengthening not only education and advocacy, but also services and initiatives that customers can actually use.”
“Diabetes is not just a medical mission for us. It’s a daily, lifelong routine of monitoring, medication, and lifestyle choices,” Uy added.
The campaign will also highlight Watsons’ Diabetes Educator Training Program, which equips pharmacists to provide more advanced patient guidance.
“As the most accessible healthcare provider, our pharmacists are ready to lead communities to prevent and support through one-on-one counseling, medication guidance, and product recommendations,” Uy said.
Danila Chiong, managing director of Watsons Philippines, said the company aims to position itself as a long-term partner in public health.
“At Watsons Philippines, we believe that good health should be within everyone’s reach. By making essential services like diabetes screening more accessible, we hope to inspire more individuals to take proactive steps toward a healthier future,” Chiong said.
The screening program is initially set to run through April and May, with organizers planning to assess its reach and impact before deciding on possible expansion.
Tiu urged Filipinos, including those without symptoms, to take advantage of the free services.
“Knowledge is protection; it can literally save your life. We urge Filipinos, even those who feel they are at the peak of health, to get screened,” Tiu ended.
