Every family has health questions—from managing everyday colds, to finding the right vitamins, to learning how to better care for long-term conditions. And often, the first people we turn to for advice are pharmacists. This World Pharmacists Day, AS Watson, the parent company of Watsons Philippines, celebrates the dedication of over 3,000 pharmacists and nearly 10,000 health professionals worldwide who continue to make healthcare more accessible to millions of families.
Beyond the Counter – Pharmacists as Health Partners
Pharmacists today do so much more than dispense medicine. They also provide trusted advice, online consultations, and personalized care that help customers make informed health decisions.
“On this meaningful day, we extend our deepest gratitude to our pharmacists and health professionals who go beyond in-store services to provide trusted advice anytime, anywhere,” shared Peter Macnab, International Commercial Director of AS Watson.
In the Philippines, Watsons has taken this role further by empowering pharmacists with expanded health services to better serve Filipino communities.
Responding to the Growing Need for Wellness
The demand for health and wellness products continues to grow. In the past year:
- Health & beauty sales rose by 10%
- Vitamins & supplements grew by 10%
- Diet & fitness products surged by 20%
- Weight management products jumped by 130%
With obesity and lifestyle-related diseases on the rise, pharmacists are playing a critical role in guiding families toward safe, expert-backed choices in medicines, supplements, and preventive care.
Watsons’ Offline + Online (O+O) strategy also ensures that customers can conveniently shop for trusted health products in-store or online, with online sales rising 30% year-on-year.
Health for Every Generation
Watsons sees both younger consumers and the silver generation becoming more proactive about their health.
- Younger customers: 30% growth year-on-year, showing stronger awareness of preventive care
- Silver generation: 30%+ of health customers, spending 1.4x more than average shoppers
By tailoring advice and solutions to each age group, Watsons ensures families—from children to grandparents—get the care they need.
Partnerships for Proactive Care in the Philippines
To better serve Filipino communities, Watsons has partnered with:
- Diabetes Philippines, Inc. (DPI) – training pharmacists to provide better diabetes awareness, prevention, and support
- Novo Nordisk – offering free obesity screenings in select stores with professional assessments and advice
These initiatives reinforce Watsons’ goal of being the go-to health and wellness partner, fulfilling its promise to help Filipinos Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great.
For more about Watsons’ health initiatives, visit www.watsons.com.ph
FAQ
Why is World Pharmacists Day important?
It’s a day to honor pharmacists and health professionals who provide trusted advice, medicines, and preventive care to families worldwide.
How many pharmacists does AS Watson have globally?
Over 3,000 pharmacists and nearly 10,000 health professionals.
What health trends are growing in the Philippines?
Vitamins, supplements, diet & fitness products, and weight management solutions are all seeing significant growth.
How is Watsons supporting community health?
By expanding pharmacist training, offering free screenings, and strengthening partnerships with health organizations like Diabetes Philippines, Inc. and Novo Nordisk.
Who benefits from these programs?
Families across generations—from young adults building wellness habits to seniors managing long-term conditions.
