Diabetes often develops quietly, with many people showing no obvious symptoms until complications begin to appear. This is why early diabetes screening plays an important role in protecting not only individuals but entire families.
preventive healthcare services and strengthening diabetes awareness across the country through the STOP Diabetes
Program. (L–R) Jayvee Creus, Senior Category Manager for Health Business; Anna Katrina Nuñez, Marketing
Supervisor for Health; Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of Diabetes Philippines Inc.; Darcy Co, Group Category Manager for
Health Business; PJ Gaffud, Category Manager for Health Business
For Filipino moms who often prioritize everyone else’s health before their own, preventive healthcare can easily take a back seat. Recognizing this growing concern, Watsons Philippines continues to expand access to free diabetes screening and health education through its partnership with Diabetes Philippines Inc., helping more communities take proactive steps toward better health.
Watsons Philippines Expands Access to Early Diabetes Detection
Leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer Watsons Philippines continues to strengthen its commitment to accessible healthcare by partnering with Diabetes Philippines Inc. to promote diabetes awareness, prevention, and early detection nationwide.
As diabetes remains one of the country’s leading health concerns, millions of Filipinos may already be living with the condition without knowing it. Early detection allows individuals to receive timely medical advice and make lifestyle changes before more serious health complications develop.
Since their partnership began, Watsons Philippines and Diabetes Philippines have worked together to make preventive healthcare more accessible through community-based screening programs, health education, and professional support.
Helping Communities Through the STOP Diabetes Program
One of the partnership’s major initiatives is the STOP (Screen, Treat, Optimize, Promote) Diabetes Program, which brings free health services closer to Filipino communities.
The program offers:
- Free diabetes screening
- Blood pressure checks
- Health risk assessments
- Medical consultations
- Diabetes education
These services are available at participating Watsons stores nationwide, making preventive healthcare more convenient and accessible for families.
Watsons Pharmacists Receive Specialized Diabetes Training
The collaboration also introduced the Diabetes Educator Program, which provides Watsons pharmacists with specialized training on diabetes prevention and management.
This allows pharmacists to offer customers reliable health information, answer common questions about diabetes, and encourage early screening—especially for individuals who may be at higher risk.
Nearly 5,000 Filipinos Screened in Just Two Months
From April to May 2026, the STOP Diabetes Program screened nearly 5,000 Filipinos for:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Overweight and obesity
The results highlight why preventive healthcare matters.
Nearly 70% of participants were found to have at least one health risk factor or existing condition that may require further monitoring or medical attention.
These findings emphasize how many Filipinos could benefit from regular health screenings before symptoms become more serious.
Bringing Preventive Healthcare Closer to Filipino Families
According to Watsons Philippines Managing Director Danilo Chiong, the partnership helps make healthcare more convenient and accessible by bringing free clinic services, diabetes screening, medical consultations, and health support directly into communities.
Meanwhile, Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of Diabetes Philippines Inc., shared that the collaboration continues to expand access to screening, education, and preventive healthcare services while encouraging more Filipinos to take proactive steps toward protecting their health.
She also expressed gratitude to Watsons Philippines, healthcare workers, volunteers, and Diabetes Philippines chapters for helping make these community programs possible.
Watsons Recognized for Supporting Diabetes Prevention
Watsons Philippines was recently recognized by Diabetes Philippines Inc. for its continued support of the STOP Diabetes Program.
Looking ahead, both organizations aim to reach even more communities across the country by expanding preventive healthcare services and encouraging more Filipinos to prioritize early detection and healthier lifestyles.
For many families, especially busy parents balancing work and home responsibilities, taking advantage of free health screenings can be a simple but meaningful step toward preventing long-term health complications.
To learn more about available health and wellness programs, visit participating Watsons stores nationwide or explore the official Watsons Philippines website and mobile app.
Official Links
- Watsons Philippines: https://www.watsons.com.ph/
- Watsons App: https://www.watsons.com.ph/mobile-app
- Diabetes Philippines: https://www.diabetesphilippines.org.ph/
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is early diabetes screening important?
Early screening helps detect diabetes before serious complications develop, allowing individuals to receive medical advice and make healthier lifestyle changes sooner.
Who should consider getting screened for diabetes?
Adults with a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or those experiencing symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained fatigue should consider regular screening. Even individuals without symptoms may benefit from preventive screening.
What is the STOP Diabetes Program?
The STOP Diabetes Program is a partnership between Watsons Philippines and Diabetes Philippines that provides free diabetes screening, health assessments, consultations, and education at selected Watsons stores nationwide.
Are the screenings free?
Yes. Participating Watsons stores offer free diabetes screening and selected preventive health services during program activities.
How can I stay updated on future health programs?
You can visit participating Watsons stores, download the Watsons App, or follow Watsons Philippines through its official website and social media channels for upcoming health initiatives.
