As respiratory illnesses such as asthma, pneumonia, allergic rhinitis, and COPD continue to affect many Filipinos, the role of pharmacists in patient education and early intervention has become increasingly important. In line with its commitment to uplifting the health and well-being of communities through accessible, patient-centered healthcare, leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer Watsons successfully concluded its Respiratory Care Educator Program. This comprehensive training initiative equipped store pharmacists with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills through expert-led discussions, hands-on workshops, and collaborative case-based learning.
Strengthening Partnerships for Better Healthcare
Ma. Corina Marte, People and Organization Director of Watsons Philippines, stated, "It is only the beginning of a stronger collaboration and shared mission to empower our pharmacists and expand access to quality respiratory care in the communities we serve. The space we create in Watsons stores is no longer just for dispensing medicines, but also for enabling better patient education, early identification of respiratory conditions, and continuous care." She expressed gratitude to the Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) and the Philippine Pharmacists Association (PPhA) for their support.
Watsons Philippines formalized its partnership with PPhA through a Memorandum of Agreement aimed at advancing respiratory care education and professional development for pharmacists nationwide. Present during the signing were Catherine V. Atienza, Controller for Sales Operations; Ma. Corina M. Marte; Dean Aleth Therese L. Dacanay, PhD, President of PPhA; and Cecille Marie C. Uy, Director for Health Business Unit.
Comprehensive Training and Hands-On Workshops
Key discussions covered essential areas in respiratory care, including asthma and COPD diagnosis and management, principles of inhalational therapy, advanced pharmacotherapy, and drug interaction management. Participants gained deeper insights into effective patient communication and counseling practices aligned with current healthcare standards. A highlight of the program was the hands-on inhaler technique workshop and case-based activities that allowed pharmacists to apply their learning to real-world patient scenarios.
Danilo Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons, emphasized, "We believe that accessible healthcare begins with empowered healthcare professionals. Through the Respiratory Care Educator Program, we aim to equip pharmacists and healthcare practitioners with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills to improve patient education, treatment adherence, and overall respiratory health outcomes."
The program concluded with a shared commitment among healthcare partners to continue advancing respiratory health through education, collaboration, and patient empowerment. Watsons continues to support healthcare professionals and promote better respiratory care in communities nationwide.
To learn more about Watsons’ healthcare initiatives, follow @watsonsph on Instagram, @WatsonsPH on Facebook, and @watsonsphilippines on TikTok. For convenient shopping, download the Watsons app or visit the official website.
