Ex-solon to DOH: Drop booklet requirement for PWDs in availing medicine discounts

Metro Manila, Philippines - A former lawmaker urged the Department of Health to drop the booklet requirement for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to avail medicine discounts after it relaxed such prerequisites for senior citizens.

In a press release, former Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan made the appeal to unburden PWDs when purchasing medicines.

He said a valid PWD’s identification card and doctor’s prescription must be enough to enjoy the mandated discount.

“Malaking tulong ito para mapagaan ang proseso sa pagbili nila ng gamot at iba pang pangangailangang medikal,” Pangilinan said.

[Translation: This is a big help in easing the process of purchasing their medicine and other medical needs]

Under the law, senior citizens and PWDs are entitled to a 20% discount. A 2017 administrative order requires them to present a purchase booklet when availing discounts for medicines.

In a statement, health spokesperson Albert Domingo said the agency “looks forward to discussing the matter with proponents and stakeholders like the National Council on Disability Affairs.”