Watsons Philippines and Operation Smile Philippines marked 12 years of partnership by bringing free cleft surgeries and care to more Filipino children in a recent medical mission in Bicol.
Since the collaboration began, over 2,500 children have received surgeries for cleft lip and palate, along with comprehensive care, offering new opportunities for health and confidence.
The Bicol mission was held at Daraga Doctors Hospital, a location significant to Operation Smile Philippines as the site of its first regional missions. The hospital provided medical facilities, operational support, and dedicated staff for the initiative.
“Putting smiles on our customers’ faces drives us, which is why we proudly partner with Operation Smile,” said Sharon Decapia, Watsons Philippines senior assistant vice president for marketing communications, PR, and sustainability.
“We want to transform a child’s smile and life, giving them a better chance at health and happiness. Our partnerships have led to incredible stories, like that of Jayden, a past beneficiary who received surgery through the program and now excels in singing,” Decapia added.
Watsons employees and volunteers from both local stores and the head office assisted in the mission, while volunteers from Superdrug, the UK-based health, beauty, and wellness retailer under the AS Watson Group, also took part.
“This initiative aligns with our culture of care and brand philosophy,” stated Corinne Marte, Watsons Philippines people and organization development director. “It inspires our employees and allows them to extend care beyond our stores.”
For Operation Smile Philippines, the mission was a return to its roots. “This mission holds deep personal significance for our team. It truly feels like coming home,” noted Dr. Gerard Ocampo, OSP’s cleft surgeon team leader. “Watsons’ consistent financial support, mobilization of volunteers, and nationwide awareness campaigns are vital to our work.”
Watsons customers can support the program by donating in-store or using Watsons Club points via the Watsons App.
Watsons, the flagship health and beauty brand of AS Watson Group, operates more than 1,165 stores in the Philippines and over 16,900 stores worldwide across 12 retail brands.
