Watsons, PCCP partner to expand respiratory care access PH

Insider Spotlight

• Watsons Philippines teams up with PCCP to train pharmacists in respiratory care
• Program targets asthma and COPD management at community level
• First batch of 50 pharmacists to undergo training in May
• Initiative strengthens pharmacists’ role as frontline healthcare partners
  
  
  

Watsons Philippines is deepening its push into community health care by partnering with the Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) to train pharmacists as respiratory care specialists, expanding access to essential health services nationwide.

Why it matters

Respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease remain prevalent in the Philippines, often requiring ongoing patient education beyond hospital settings.

The partnership positions retail pharmacists as accessible health advisors, bridging gaps between clinical care and everyday patient needs.

The program

The Respiratory Educator’s Program equips selected Watsons pharmacists with specialized training in respiratory health, including inhalation therapy and disease management.

Training includes hands-on sessions and case-based learning to improve patient guidance, particularly in proper inhaler use and treatment adherence.

The first rollout begins May 26 to 27, with 50 pharmacists participating in the initial batch.

What they’re saying

“Our pharmacists are at the heart of this promise. They are not only health-care professionals in our stores; they are trusted partners in the communities we serve. As health-care needs evolve, it is our responsibility to ensure that our people continue to grow—professionally, clinically, and personally,” Ma. Corina M. Marte, director for people and organization development of Watsons Philippines, said in a press statement.

PCCP president Dr. Virginia S. Delos Reyes emphasized that respiratory care requires sustained patient support, noting the partnership helps bring clinical expertise closer to communities.

The bigger picture

The initiative reflects a broader shift in health-care delivery, where pharmacies are evolving into primary touchpoints for preventive care and chronic disease management.

By leveraging its network of over 1,200 stores, Watsons can scale community-based health care interventions more efficiently.

What’s next

Watsons plans to expand the program nationwide, integrating respiratory care support into routine pharmacy services.

“Through this partnership, we are strengthening the role of our pharmacists as accessible health-care partners in the community,” said managing director Danilo Chiong.

For consumers, the move signals more accessible, expert-backed guidance during everyday pharmacy visits—especially for managing chronic respiratory conditions. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma