MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Watsons Philippines is redefining the way Filipinos think about heart care through its innovative #heARTworks campaign, a creative wellness initiative that fuses health advocacy with the power of art.
Held on September 18 at drybrush Gallery, SM Mall of Asia, the event invited Watsons Club members and guests to express their personal interpretations of heart health through an exclusive oil pastel workshop led by master artist Noli Española. Complementing this creative experience, Watsons also offered free health services at its MOA 7 store, including heart consultations, blood pressure checks, and glucose monitoring, empowering attendees to take proactive steps toward their well-being.
Heart Warriors Philippines Inc., a community that supports individuals living with heart conditions, recognized Watsons’ efforts by presenting a Certificate of Appreciation for its meaningful initiative in promoting awareness and providing safe spaces for learning and expression.
According to the Department of Health, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the country, accounting for nearly 19% of total deaths in 2024. About 13 Filipinos die every hour from conditions such as ischaemic heart disease and stroke – conditions often linked to preventable risk factors like poor diet, high cholesterol, hypertension, and stress. Research highlights that creative activities, such as painting and drawing, can help lower stress hormones, improve mood, and support cardiovascular health.
“We want people to see that wellness goes beyond prescriptions. Through #heARTworks, we are making health check-ups more accessible and more meaningful. We’re creating a space where care and creativity meet, a place where people can pause, reflect, and recommit to themselves,” said Joweeh B. Liao, Director of Health Business Unit, Finance, Property, and Store Development of Watsons Philippines.
Participants created heartfelt artworks ranging from stories of recovery and resilience to personal depictions of lifelong health battles. Each masterpiece became a symbol of both creativity and commitment to heart care.
The initiative forms part of Watsons’ broader campaign to promote holistic wellness, supported by its brand partners Omron, Accu-chek, Torrent Pharma, and Watsons Generics. These collaborations ensure that Filipinos can access affordable, high-quality, FDA-approved medicines, devices, and supplements.
“Today shows us that when we care for our health and nurture our creativity, we not only feel better inside, but we also share that light with the people around us. This is what it truly means to Look Good, Do Good, and Feel Great,” said Sharon Decapia, Senior AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability of Watsons Philippines.
