Every three minutes, a child in Asia Pacific is born with a cleft lip or cleft palate—a condition that affects their ability to eat, speak, and smile. In the Philippines, thousands of children continue to wait for life-changing cleft treatment and therapy.
Supporting Cleft Care in the Philippines Through Everyday Choices
To help address this need, a campaign was launched encouraging Filipinos to support comprehensive cleft care through something as simple as buying mouthwash. From April 17 to December 31, 2025, for every LISTERINE® product purchased at Watsons stores nationwide (up to the first 50,000 bottles), Php10 will be donated to support speech therapy sessions for children with cleft conditions through Operation Smile Philippines.
This regional initiative is part of the broader Healthy Smiles Start with LISTERINE® campaign, which aims to raise awareness on cleft conditions and promote oral health education while generating funds for cleft care services.
Why Cleft Care Goes Beyond Surgery
Many people associate cleft treatment only with surgery, but comprehensive cleft care includes much more—speech therapy, nutritional support, dental services, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Operation Smile Philippines, through its partnership with health and retail organizations, ensures that children get the long-term care they need to thrive.
One inspiring story is that of Ramon Solas, a cleft surgery recipient who now works for Operation Smile Philippines. Once bullied and lacking confidence, Ramon received his surgery through the program. Today, he helps coordinate cleft care for other children, passing on the same hope he once received.
Real Stories, Real Change
Apart from Ramon, children across Asia—like Chutima (Paeng), Supanat (Folksong), Worapruch (Lak), and Wang Nianyi—have also benefitted from cleft treatment and therapy. Their journeys show that early care leads to lasting change, not only in physical health but also in confidence, education, and emotional well-being.
As Rachelle Alcovindas, Senior Officer of Comprehensive Cleft Care at Operation Smile Philippines, shares, “Children with cleft conditions face challenges beyond appearance. With continued access to therapy and care, they’re given the tools to speak clearly, eat well, and engage with the world around them.”
How You Can Help Make a Difference
You don’t need to be a doctor or donate thousands to create an impact. By simply purchasing a LISTERINE® product at any Watsons store before the end of 2025, you’re helping fund speech therapy for a child in need.
In-store booths and stickers also let you pledge your support, spread awareness, and encourage others to contribute. Whether you’re a regular Watsons shopper or someone discovering this campaign for the first time, your everyday routine can lead to extraordinary change—one smile at a time.
Learn more about cleft care support and how your small act can make a big difference. Visit Operation Smile Philippines or ask about the campaign at any Watsons store near you.
