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Getting diagnosed with diabetes can feel overwhelming. Many Filipinos ask the same questions: “Ano na ang gagawin ko?”, “Magbabago ba ang buhay ko?”, or “Kaya ko pa ba ‘to?”
But the truth is while diabetes is a serious condition, it doesn’t have to dictate how you live your life. And this is exactly the message behind a new partnership between The Generics Pharmacy (TGP) and the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM).
This collaboration aims to empower Filipinos with the right knowledge, the right care, and the right support system so that life after diagnosis becomes not just manageable, but meaningful.
A Growing Health Challenge in the Philippines
Diabetes continues to be one of the country’s major health concerns.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), 4.3 million Filipinos are living with diabetes making it among the top causes of illness and death nationwide.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that diabetes claims around 1.5 million lives each year, especially in the Western Pacific region where cases continue to rise, including in the Philippines.
These numbers can be alarming, but they also highlight one important point: early action and proper management can change the story.
Living Better Through the IWAS: 4Dapat Diabetes Advocacy
PCEDM reminds the public that diabetes management doesn’t have to be complicated. With consistent habits and proper medical guidance, patients can still enjoy long, fulfilling lives.
Their advocacy, IWAS: 4Dapat Diabetes, emphasizes four essential steps:
1. Ikonsulta sa Doktor
Early diagnosis and regular checkups help prevent complications.
2. Wastong Pagkain
Nutritious and balanced meals can significantly improve daily health.
3. Aktibong Pamumuhay
Even small steps like daily walking can make a big difference.
4. Sapat at Angkop na Gamot
Taking doctor-prescribed medication consistently is key to managing blood sugar levels.
These are simple, practical habits that Filipinos can apply no matter their age or lifestyle.
TGP and PCEDM: A Partnership for Better Health
To strengthen nationwide diabetes education, TGP officially partnered with PCEDM through a Memorandum of Agreement signed by TGP Deputy General Manager Aileen Natividad and PCEDM President Dr. Lora May Tan-Tin Hay.
By combining TGP’s wide retail reach with PCEDM’s medical expertise, the partnership aims to bring reliable, easy-to-understand diabetes information to more communities.
Natividad shared that this collaboration aligns with TGP’s mission to make healthcare more accessible for Filipinos.
She emphasized that working closely with PCEDM helps bridge the gap between awareness and real action in diabetes prevention and management.
Meanwhile, Dr. Tan-Tin Hay highlighted that life after diagnosis remains hopeful:
With proper guidance, education, and support, Filipinos can live fully and confidently even with diabetes.
Bringing Health Awareness to Communities Nationwide
To kick off the initiative, both organizations will launch educational efforts across digital platforms, TGP branches, and on-ground events. Expect to see:
- Expert-led health talks
- Community engagement programs
- Accessible and consistent diabetes information
- Amplified PCEDM educational content through TGP’s platforms
The campaign will officially roll out on World Diabetes Day, November 14, encouraging Filipinos to prioritize their health and take proactive steps toward better diabetes management.
Diabetes may be a lifelong condition, but it doesn’t have to be a lifelong burden. With organizations like TGP and PCEDM working together, Filipinos now have better access to education, treatment, and encouragement—proving that life after diagnosis can still be bright, healthy, and full of hope.
If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, now is the perfect time to learn more, seek guidance, and take small but meaningful steps toward better health.