AC Health opens first Japanese-inspired pharmacy in One Ayala

AC Health opens the first branch of St. Joseph Drug Powered by SUGI in One Ayala, promising a Japanese-inspired wellness pharmacy experience that combines trusted health essentials, curated lifestyle products, and a more thoughtful approach to self-care. The opening of this flagship store marks a significant milestone for the partnership between AC Health Pharma Ventures (APV), St. Joseph Drug, and Sugi Holdings, bringing together deep local healthcare expertise and Japan’s globally recognized approach to wellness retail.

“Healthcare and wellness are becoming increasingly integrated into everyday life, and consumers today are looking for experiences that are both trusted and engaging,” said Atty. Yet Abarca, President and CEO of APV. “Through St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi, we wanted to create a destination that feels approachable, modern, and rooted in wellness — while still delivering the accessibility and reliability people expect from a pharmacy.”

St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi introduces a more lifestyle-driven approach to pharmacy retail, where discovery plays a central role. Customers can explore carefully selected Japanese wellness products, skincare and beauty items, household essentials, snacks and beverages, oral care products, and other everyday wellness favorites that have become popular among Japanese consumers.

“For almost 70 years, St. Joseph Drug has been committed to serving communities with trusted care and accessible healthcare products,” saidDorothy Cruz, Chairman and CEO of St. Joseph Drug. “This new chapter allows us to evolve that legacy by creating a more elevated and engaging customer experience. We are excited to welcome customers into a store that reflects both our commitment to care and our passion for wellness innovation.”

The collaboration with Sugi Holdings also brings a direct connection to Japan’s leading drugstore and wellness retail expertise. Known for its expansive pharmacy and wellness network in Japan, Sugi Pharmacy has built a reputation around preventive health, customer-centered retail experiences, and curated wellness solutions.

“We are very excited to bring the Sugi wellness experience to the Philippines through this partnership,” said Tsuyoshi Yamamoto, Director and CEO of S. Trading, Sugi Holding’s Overseas Trading Company. “Japanese wellness culture is centered around everyday habits, preventive care, and making wellness part of daily living. Through St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi, we hope to share products, ideas, and experiences that inspire healthier lifestyles while also creating a unique retail destination for Filipino consumers.”

The launch of St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi is part of AC Health’s broader effort to reimagine how pharmacies can support healthier lifestyles beyond traditional medicine dispensing. The new store aims to meet evolving customer needs by making wellness more accessible, enjoyable, and integrated into everyday routines.

ABOUT AC HEALTH

Established in 2015, AC Health has rapidly grown into one of the country’s most dynamic and integrated healthcare networks, driven by its vision to transform health for every Filipino.

AC Health operates across two core pillars — provider and pharma — creating a seamless healthcare ecosystem that addresses the full continuum of care. Its portfolio includes Healthway Medical Network, a network of multi-specialty clinics, ambulatory centres, and full-service hospitals; Generika Drugstore, the pioneer in generic retail pharmacies; IE Medica and MedEthix, a major pharmaceutical importer and distributor; and St. Joseph Drug, a leading retail pharmacy in North and Central Luzon.

Through its provider and pharma pillars, AC Health creates a seamless and integrated healthcare ecosystem for the Filipino patient. Visit our website at https://www.achealth.com.ph and follow us on LinkedIn to learn more about the company.

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