Shop local, save more
When Filipinos travel overseas, their final stop before heading home is often the local drugstore or beauty shop. While some splurge on luxury brands that still haven’t made their way to the Philippine market, many savvy shoppers stock up on self-care staples. They hoard affordable drugstore finds that serve as alternatives to high-end products back home.
Now, if they carry that mindset back home and consider the alternatives to expensive brands on local shelves, they might even save more. Just think—no one has to go through the hassle of buying new luggage, lugging it around, or sweating at the airport counters for fear of shedding extra cash for excess baggage.
Watsons is filled with quality personal care products that rival global brands in performance, without the hefty price tag.
“So basically, Watsons goes straight to the manufacturers. It’s actually global sourcing. It’s not just here in the Philippines. We have some locally sourced products, but we also source from whoever makes it best,” said Jared Ernest de Guzman, customer director at Watsons Philippines. “From there, each supplier has to undergo certain qualifications for them to become a Watsons product supplier.”
Quality testing
He added that the products undergo at least 14 quality tests and receive certifications from Europe. Thus, you get European-quality products without having to break the bank. Most Filipinos have probably experienced Watsons quality without realizing it. Watsons’ hand soaps are a familiar sight in restaurant washrooms.
Now, if you’re already into the scent and quality of these hand soaps, just imagine that same experience across other self-care essentials—body wash, wipes, tissues, body mists, shampoos, and conditioners. And let’s not forget the hair treatment tubs that people have been quietly gatekeeping. These tubs leave your hair softer and shinier, giving you that post-salon glow without the salon trip.
Another product that we love from the lineup is the sunscreen that has SPF 50—a minimum in the Philippines. It doesn’t leave any greasy feeling, and the skin absorbs it quickly. Their mouthwash performs just as well as the leading brand, without the sting. It’s something to consider when you have young adults in the house that you want to teach about dental health.
More savings
Watsons is encouraging shoppers to give switching a try through its Switch & Save campaign. Launched on March 24 at the Watsons branch in MOA Arena, the campaign offers even more savings on top of existing deals when you make the switch to Watsons Brand products. Shoppers can enjoy perks like “Buy One, Get One” deals, exclusive discounts, and free gifts, available in-store and online until May 2.
“Essentials don’t have to be boring,” said De Guzman. He said that they keep things fresh with seasonal drops. It’s cherry blossom season in our favorite destinations—Japan and Korea—thus they have sakura designs. They feature citrus scents for summer and cozy vibes for Christmas.
Expensive products are not always the best ones. If you can enjoy deals from overseas, it’s high time you give a chance to those you can find locally. If you’re wondering what you can do with the savings after you’ve made your switch, we suggest using it to indulge in a good restaurant on your next trip.
