Steering Mercury Drug to New Heights: CEO Awards Honoree Vivian Que-Azcona

For her transformational leadership, Vivian Que-Azcona, President of Mercury Drug, receives honors from The Business Manual CEO Awards as one of the nation's top leaders.

Vivian Que Azcona, as the President of Mercury Drug, has been instrumental in transforming the company into the foremost health and wellness partner in the Philippines. Her journey from a staff assistant to the leader of the nation's top pharmaceutical retailer is a story of dedication, innovation, and exceptional leadership. The Business Manual recognizes her remarkable achievements in the first CEO Awards.

A Legacy of Growth and Expansion

Mercury Drug, founded by her father, Mariano Que, in 1945, began as a small pushcart operation selling medicine post-World War II. Under Azcona's stewardship, this modest venture has expanded into a formidable network of over 1,000 stores nationwide, commanding a 50% market share in the pharmaceutical retail industry by 2017.

Beyond Pharmacy: A Trusted Health Partner

Mercury Drug has evolved under Azcona's guidance, transcending its role as a pharmacy to become a trusted health and wellness partner for millions of Filipinos. The company is renowned for its wide range of pharmaceutical products, over-the-counter medications, and healthcare services, all delivered with a strong commitment to customer service and expertise.

Visionary Leadership and Accolades

Azcona's visionary approach has seen Mercury Drug emphasize "trust" and "care" as its operational cornerstones. This philosophy has earned the company numerous accolades, including six Platinum Trusted Brand Awards and two Gold Quality Service Awards from Reader’s Digest in the pharmacy/drugstore category.

Invaluable Contributions and Recognition

Azcona's contributions have been widely recognized, with accolades from prestigious institutions like the University of Santo Tomas and the Colegio Medico Farmaceutico de Filipinas, Incorporada. Her leadership has consistently placed Mercury Drug among the Top 10 companies in the Philippines, contributing significantly to the national economy and engaging in philanthropic efforts nationwide.

Health Education and Community Outreach

The company's commitment to health education is evident in initiatives like mercuryTV (mTV) and the giant electronic billboard (mEB) at the Mercury Drug Quiapo Plaza Miranda. Beyond business, Azcona's achievements include receiving an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Science from the De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute in 2020.

Mercury Drug extends its reach beyond its customers, regularly initiating nationwide promotional and outreach programs offering free medicine and consultations to millions, including those in underserved communities.

Awards and Honors

Vivian Que Azcona's remarkable career is marked by numerous awards, such as the Most Outstanding Health Professional in Pharmacy (1989), Entrepreneur of the Year (2015), and the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year (2021). Her most recent accolade, the Platinum Most Trusted Brand Award from Reader’s Digest (2023), underscores her enduring impact on the industry.

A Pillar of Entrepreneurial Excellence

Vivian Que Azcona's journey with Mercury Drug is not just a story of business success; it's a narrative of transforming a family business into a national symbol of trust, care, and excellence. Her leadership serves as an inspiration, showcasing the remarkable impact of visionary entrepreneurship in the healthcare sector.