Industry leaders and partners gathered at the Watsons HWB Awards 2026, held May 15 at Shangri-La The Fort, to recognize top-performing companies in the health, wellness, and beauty sectors.
The annual event, themed “Excellence in Full Bloom,” also marked the 185th anniversary of parent company AS Watson Group and highlighted the retailer’s expansion and omnichannel retail strategies across Asia and Europe.
Watsons Philippines chief operating officer Jefferson Go said the company’s success was driven by partnerships with brands and suppliers that helped strengthen its position in the local retail market.
“This evening, we celebrate the partners behind our success, the brands and suppliers who have helped make Watsons the country’s most loved health and beauty O+O retailer,” Go said during his opening remarks.
The program featured performances by Jayda Avanzado, Arabelle Dela Cruz, and Gary Valenciano as part of a segment tracing Watsons’ growth since its founding in 1841.
Watsons executives also shared business strategies focused on customer engagement, digital integration and wellness solutions. Beauty business unit director Kim Reyes said the company aims to strengthen customer experiences and innovation in the beauty sector, while health business director Cecille Uy emphasized preventive healthcare and accessibility. Online business and CRM director Lovenna Cadano discussed the company’s efforts to create a seamless omnichannel retail experience.
Among the top awardees, Unilever Philippines, Inc. won International Partner of the Year for Beauty, while Boehringer Ingelheim Inc. received the International Partner of the Year award for Health.
Genson Distribution Inc. and Unilab, Inc. were named Local Partner of the Year for Beauty and Health, respectively, while IFace Inc. received the Consignor of the Year award for Beauty.
Other companies recognized across major and special award categories included L’Oréal Philippines, Inc., Beiersdorf Philippines Inc., Haleon Philippines, Inc., Procter & Gamble Philippines, Inc., Colgate-Palmolive Philippines, Inc. and Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Philippines Inc..
Watsons Philippines managing director Danilo Chiong said the awards recognized not only achievements in retail and business growth but also long-term partnerships within the industry.
“The awards are a reflection of what we have built together and what we continue to nurture,” Chiong said in his closing remarks.
