Manila: Senior citizens will no longer be required to present a purchase booklet to avail themselves of the 20 percent discount on medicines and medical devices. This policy change follows the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issuing Department Circular 2025-005, officially eliminating the booklet from the checklist of requirements.

According to Philippines News Agency, the FDA announced in a public advisory that this initiative aligns with the Department of Health (DOH) Administrative Order 2024-0017 and the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010. The FDA noted, "To streamline the requirements and remove undue regulatory burden to the availing senior citizens, the DOH has omitted the purchase booklet from the checklist of requirements to avail of the discount."

The FDA emphasized its role in implementing these administrative orders, stating, "As one of the agencies responsible for the implementation of the aforementioned AOs, this Circular is hereby issued for the guidance of concerned industry stakeholders and the general public."

Under RA 9994, elderly Filipinos are entitled to a 20 percent discount and Value-Added Tax (VAT) exemption when purchasing medicines and medical supplies, among other benefits. The FDA has mandated that pharmacies and medical device retailers fully comply with this directive to ensure that the elderly can access their privileges without additional documentary requirements.

This move is part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s broader effort to enhance healthcare access for the elderly and streamline processes across pharmacies and medical establishments.