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Richmond Mercurio - The Philippine Star
June 2, 2026 | 12:00am
Ayala Malls, St. Joseph Drug, AC Health and Sugi executives launch the first Japanese-inspired pharmacy in One Ayala, bringing together local healthcare expertise and Japan’s globally recognized approach to preventive wellness and customer-centered retail.
STAR / File
MANILA, Philippines — AC Health, the Ayala Group’s health care arm, is introducing a Japanese-inspired wellness pharmacy experience that combines health essentials and curated lifestyle products in collaboration with Sugi Holdings.
AC Health has opened in One Ayala the first branch of St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi, a flagship store for the partnership among AC Health Pharma Ventures (APV), St. Joseph Drug and Sugi Holdings.
AC Health said the launch of St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi is part of its broader effort to reimagine how pharmacies can support healthier lifestyles beyond traditional medicine dispensing.
The company said the new store aims to meet evolving customer needs by making wellness more accessible, enjoyable and integrated into everyday routines.
“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,” APV president and CEO Yet Abarca said.
Through St. Joseph Drug Powered by Sugi, 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.
St. Joseph Drug chairman and CEO Dorothy Cruz said this new chapter allows the brand to evolve its legacy by creating a more elevated and engaging customer experience.
“For almost 70 years, St. Joseph Drug has been committed to serving communities with trusted care and accessible healthcare products. We are excited to welcome customers into a store that reflects both our commitment to care and our passion for wellness innovation,” Cruz said.
The collaboration with Sugi Holdings also brings a direct connection to Japan’s leading drugstore and wellness retail expertise.
Sugi Pharmacy, known for its expansive pharmacy and wellness network in Japan, has built a reputation around preventive health, customer-centered retail experiences and curated wellness solutions.
“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,” Tsuyoshi Yamamoto, director and CEO of S. Trading, Sugi Holdings’ overseas trading company, said.
