In celebration of World Liver Day, Essentiale Forte P mounted a two‑ day immersive liver health experience dubbed “Atay Aksyon Nation” recently at One Ayala in Makati City, bringing liver care front and center through education, expert consultation, and interactive activities.
With liver health remaining an important public health concern and awareness still low, the initiative aimed to address the growing liver health crisis in the Philippines by empowering Filipinos to better understand the importance of proactive liver care and recognize warning signs before complications arise.
A key highlight of the event was the opportunity for attendees to consult with liver health experts and receive personalized guidance through free on‑ site medical consultations. Participants also took part in activities that emphasized the importance of proactive liver care, while learning how Essentiale Forte P supports these efforts.
The program also features talks from medical professionals, brand leaders, and Essentiale’s Liver Health Advocate, Tatay Atay (Ogie Alcasid), who shared practical advice on caring for one’s liver in everyday life.
“The liver performs more than 500 essential functions in the body. Without it, survival is impossible. In the Philippines alone, an estimated 80 million people are affected by liver disease, and up to 30 percent of Filipinos may already have liver problems without knowing it because they feel no symptoms,” Dr. Anna Guia Limpoco, Philippine Academy of Family Physicians, said during the forum.
“Many people are only concerned when there is obvious damage, such as fatty liver. But when you are still functioning well and do not feel sick, you tend to skip medical check-ups.”
Dr. Karen De Luna of the Hepatology Society of the Philippines also highlighted the importance of every Filipino taking care of their liver health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and the appropriate use of medicines.
“Some patients may need additional support from medicines such as hepatoprotectors…” explained Dr. De Luna.
“These medicines also have anti‑ inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and their benefits have been supported by numerous studies.”
Emphasizing the brand’s commitment to improving liver health awareness, Gheck Barlis, Brand Manager of Essentiale Forte P, underscored the importance of making liver care more relatable and actionable for Filipinos.
“Many Filipinos still overlook liver health until it becomes a serious concern – which is why early intervention matters. Our goal is to empower Filipinos with the right knowledge and encourage them to take proactive steps toward protecting their liver — not just on World Liver Day, but every day.”
Drawing from his advocacy for liver health, Ogie Alcasid emphasized the need for Filipinos to take early action and prioritize their liver as part of their overall well‑ being.
“Bilang Tatay Atay, gusto kong ipaalala sa lahat ng Pilipino na ang pag‑ aalaga sa atay ay pag‑ aalaga rin sa sarili at sa pamilya. Madalas tahimik lang ang atay, kaya hindi natin agad napapansin kapag may problema na. Through Atay Aksyon, sana mas marami ang ma‑ encourage na kumilos nang maaga at gawing part ng araw‑ araw na buhay ang pag‑ aalaga sa liver health,” he said.
“Atay Aksyon” reflects Essentiale’s vision of a liver‑ healthy nation where every Filipino is informed, empowered, and proactive in protecting their liver health — turning awareness into meaningful action.
