Firms partner to combat stroke in the Philippines

In a landmark collaboration aimed at improving healthcare accessibility in the Philippines, PHILUSA Corporation has partnered with Bayer Philippines to provide world-class, affordable stroke-prevention medication through RHEA Generics.

The initiative was formalized at a signing ceremony held on February 5, 2024, at Bayer Philippines’ Head Office.

The partnership with Bayer Philippines marks the 12th collaboration for RHEA Generics, further expanding its portfolio of high-quality, cost-effective generic medicines.

Neogin Evangelista, President and General Manager of PHILUSA Corporation, emphasized the importance of this alliance in making healthcare more accessible.

“We’re here to help Filipino patients in accessing affordable generic medicines while ensuring their quality, safety, and efficacy,” Evangelista said.

Stroke remains one of the top three leading causes of death in the Philippines, according to the Department of Health (DOH), with more than half a million Filipinos affected by the disease.

Angel Michaelo Evangelista, Managing Director and Country Division Head of Bayer Philippines, underscored the significance of the partnership in providing enhanced access to essential medications.

“Our mission is health for all. We are committed to ensuring that stroke-prevention medicine is available through our partner, RHEA Generics. This will provide enhanced patient access to high-quality and affordable medicine,” he stated.

Mercury Drug Corporation, a key distribution partner, will play a vital role in ensuring the availability and affordability of these medications across the country.

“Our customers are assured of availability, affordability, and accessibility,” added Corazon Lim, Vice President for Merchandising at Mercury Drug Corporation.

RHEA Generics, launched in 2014, is known for its innovative approach in producing generic medicines in partnership with global pharmaceutical leaders like Pfizer, Sanofi, and AstraZeneca.

The brand’s offerings include treatments for chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory infections, and now, with the addition of stroke-prevention drugs, it continues to make significant strides in public health.