Understanding Heart Disease in the Philippines
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the Philippines, accounting for nearly 19 percent of total fatalities in 2024. Alarmingly, an average of 13 Filipinos dies each hour from conditions such as ischemic heart disease and stroke. While common risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, poor diet, and chronic stress contribute to heart health issues, emotional stress also plays a significant role.
Creative Approaches to Heart Health
Recent studies indicate that engaging in creative activities, like painting or drawing, can significantly reduce cortisol levels, alleviate stress, and improve mood. These activities offer a simple yet effective approach to support both mental and cardiovascular health. Recognizing the intrinsic link between emotional and physical well-being, Watsons Philippines initiated a unique event that merges health and creativity.
Watsons’ #heARTworks Event
Held on September 18 at Drybrush Gallery in SM Mall of Asia, the #heARTworks event was designed to prompt Filipinos to care for their hearts not just physically, but emotionally as well. The event featured an exclusive oil pastel workshop led by master artist Noli Española, providing participants a platform to express their feelings about heart health through art.
Alongside this creative endeavor, Watsons offered free health checks, blood pressure monitoring, and glucose testing at their Watsons MOA 7 store. This comprehensive approach empowers customers to take proactive steps toward total wellness.
Why Emotional and Physical Health Matter
“Wellness goes beyond prescriptions,” stated Joweeh B. Liao, Director of the Health Business Unit at Watsons Philippines. “Through #heARTworks, we make health check-ups more accessible and meaningful. We’re creating a space where care and creativity meet, allowing people to pause, reflect, and recommit to their well-being.”
Participants were encouraged to paint representations of what heart care means to them. This creative expression fostered a deeper self-awareness and encouraged individuals to make everyday choices that support both physical and emotional health. Some artworks reflected themes of recovery and resilience, while others symbolized the emotional toll of living with a heart condition.
Community Engagement and Support
The event also showcased the importance of community in promoting heart health. Members of Heart Warriors Philippines Inc., a support network for individuals living with heart conditions, attended and honored Watsons with a certificate of appreciation. Their presence underscored the essential role of collaboration between communities and institutions in fostering better heart care for all.
Partnerships for Health and Wellness
Watsons’ advocacy for heart health is further strengthened through collaborations with trusted partners and suppliers. Leading brands like Omron, Accu-chek, and Torrent Pharma provide reliable health devices that enable individuals to monitor and manage their wellness daily. Moreover, Watsons Generics ensures access to high-quality, affordable, and FDA-approved medications, making wellness more inclusive.
As part of their initiative, Watsons offers a special promotion: a Buy 30, Get 30% Off deal on key heart health essentials, including Watsons Generics Omega 3-1400, COQ10, and Garlic Oil 1500mg, making proactive care accessible to all.
Your Heart Health Journey Begins Now
Start your journey towards better heart health today with Watsons. Whether you require vitamins, medical devices, personal care products, or heart health essentials, Watsons provides a wide range of products to support your wellness goals. Download the Watsons App from the App Store or Google Play, become a Watsons Club member, and stay updated on various health and wellness activities like #heARTworks. Your heart deserves the best care!
