Diabetes isn’t just a personal health issue anymore—it’s becoming a major workplace concern in the Philippines. As more Filipinos juggle long hours, high stress, and mostly desk-bound routines, experts warn that the modern work culture is helping fuel the rise of diabetes.
In line with World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2025, Diabetes Philippines (DP) is urging employers to take a more active role in keeping their workforce healthy. This year’s theme, “Know more and do more for diabetes at work,” highlights how the office environment can either support or harm employee well-being. The advocacy is supported by Novo Nordisk Philippines, which continues to champion diabetes awareness and prevention in the country.
Millions of Filipinos Are Affected — Many Don’t Even Know It
According to the International Diabetes Federation, about 4.73 million Filipino adults aged 20 to 79 have diabetes. Even more alarming: over 2.5 million remain undiagnosed. Many of them are part of the country’s active workforce, silently struggling with symptoms or unaware they are at risk.
Why Diabetes Is a Workplace Issue
“Diabetes impacts the way we work and the way businesses perform,” said Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of Diabetes Philippines. She explained that workplace habits—skipping meals, long hours of sitting, and chronic stress—create an environment where diabetes can easily develop or worsen.
Healthy employees are more productive, she added, and companies have a lot to gain when they invest in wellness.
The Weight Problem
Obesity, one of the strongest risk factors for diabetes, continues to rise among Filipino adults. Four out of 10 adults are now overweight or obese, according to the 2023 National Nutrition Survey by DOST-FNRI. With more jobs becoming sedentary, this upward trend is expected to continue without early intervention.
“The way we work is shaping the way we get sick,” said Dr. Reynaldo Rosales, Treasurer of Diabetes Philippines. He emphasized that obesity and diabetes are closely linked, and that small, consistent lifestyle changes—even during work hours—can create a big difference.
Examples include having healthier food options at the office, encouraging movement breaks, and scheduling regular health checks.
A Nationwide Call to Action
This year, Diabetes Philippines is strengthening its “Tara Na, Stop Diabetes” campaign—a national movement encouraging Filipinos to take proactive steps toward diabetes prevention and care, starting in the workplace.
“Education must begin where people spend most of their day,” said Dr. Nines Bautista, Vice Chairman and Vice President of Diabetes Philippines. She stressed that both employers and employees play crucial roles in building healthy habits at work.
Partnerships with organizations like Novo Nordisk Philippines help amplify this advocacy and reach more workplaces nationwide.
Industry Support Matters
“Workplaces are critical environments for promoting good health,” said Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. By supporting Diabetes Philippines, the company hopes to help create work settings where prevention, early detection, and daily healthy habits become the norm.
A Shared Responsibility
Global evidence shows that workplace wellness programs—such as fitness initiatives, nutrition education, and regular screenings—don’t just boost employee health. They also reduce absenteeism, lower medical costs, and prevent long-term complications.
As the country observes World Diabetes Day, Diabetes Philippines is calling on employers, policymakers, and communities to take action. Healthier workplaces lead to healthier employees. And ultimately, a healthier nation.
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