MANILA, Philippines — Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Often called a “silent killer,” CKD frequently goes undiagnosed, having no noticeable symptoms at its early stages. However, when it reaches advanced stages, many patients face the prospect of dialysis.1 A 2022 study revealed that the prevalence of CKD cases in the Philippines has risen to as much as 35.94%, above the global average of 9.1-13.4%.2 This is why addressing this health crisis requires more than awareness; it demands action at every step of the patient journey.
In line with this year’s theme of “Kidney Health for All, Caring for People,” Mercury Drug, a local pharmaceutical retailer, AstraZeneca, a global science-led biopharmaceutical company, and Diabetes Philippines, a healthcare organization, came together to help Filipinos start their renal care journey.
Building on the success of the free kidney screening program launched last January, the initiative will now provide on-site physician consultations every Sunday at four Mercury Drug branches—Pavilion Mall and Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, Trinoma Mall in Quezon City, and a branch in Noveleta, Cavite—starting March 22, to guide patients further. The program aims to screen over 13,000 Filipinos in community settings in 2026. AstraZeneca also partners with various institutions to expand chronic kidney disease (CKD) screening and improve early detection among at-risk communities.
“Ang Diabetes Philippines po ay magpapadala na rin ng mga doktor to sit while the screening is being done para agad-agad mapaliwanag sa pasyente nang mas maayos kung ano yung outcome at mabigyan na ng tamang lunas,” Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of Diabetes Philippines, said. “Kung siya ay wala pang doktor, puwede na po naming maresetahan agad-agad para maumpisahan na ang paggamot.
Dr. Tiu added that, along with the doctor, a nutritionist and nurses will be present at the screening site to advise about diet, exercise and blood sugar monitoring
Through a signing ceremony at the EDSA Shangri-La Plaza, Mercury Drug, AstraZeneca, and Diabetes Philippines formalised a tripartite agreement to make kidney care more accessible to Filipinos through resource sharing and collaboration.
Dr. Rey Rosales, Treasurer of Diabetes Philippines, shares insights on the link between diabetes and kidney disease and why early screening plays a crucial role in preventing complications.
“As Mercury Drug marks its 81st year, we remain committed to being more than a pharmacy, aiming to be a true partner in every Filipino’s health journey,” Cora Lim, Vice President for Merchandising of Mercury Drug Corp., said. “This collaboration reflects our dedication to bringing accessible, meaningful health solutions to the communities we serve.”
“At AstraZeneca, our purpose is to improve patient outcomes through science and strong collaboration. This is why the expansion of the ACT NOW for CKD program is so meaningful,” Lotis Ramin, Country President of AstraZeneca Philippines, said. “Our collaboration with Mercury Drug allows us to scale screening access through their extensive network, while Diabetes Philippines continues to strengthen kidney care to individuals at greatest risk, especially those living with diabetes. This is the power of partnership, combining our strengths to create meaningful, measurable impact.”
Marimel Lamsin of Kidney Alliance Philippines speaks about her personal journey with kidney disease and launches the organization’s “8 Golden Rules” video to strengthen public awareness on kidney health.
The event also launched the “8 Golden Rules for Kidney Care,”: a health education video by the Kidney Alliance of the Philippines, which lists actionable tips for proper kidney health, such as blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring, maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, drinking more water, quitting smoking, not abusing pain relievers and having regular health checkups.
Taking care of your kidneys starts with knowing your status. Free kidney screening is available from Wednesday to Sunday at participating Mercury Drug branches. Join the growing number of Filipinos taking the first step today.
