By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Individuals seeking assistance under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) crisis intervention program can once again use their guarantee letters at selected Mercury Drug branches nationwide starting June 22.
The move follows the renewal of the partnership between the DSWD and Mercury Drug, expanding access to medicines and medical supplies for beneficiaries of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
Under the arrangement, 262 Mercury Drug outlets across the country will honor DSWD-issued guarantee letters, allowing qualified recipients to obtain prescribed medicines and health-related products more conveniently.
DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the initiative is expected to lessen the burden on beneficiaries who rely on government assistance for their medical needs.
She added that the department continues to strengthen collaborations with private institutions to improve the delivery of social welfare services and ensure faster assistance to vulnerable sectors.
Aside from Mercury Drug, the DSWD has also partnered with Generika Drugstore, where guarantee letters are currently accepted in participating branches nationwide.
The agency is likewise exploring similar partnerships with additional pharmaceutical providers to broaden the reach of its medical assistance programs.
Officials advised beneficiaries to look for signage indicating that DSWD guarantee letters are accepted before making purchases at participating pharmacies.
The renewed agreement is expected to provide easier access to essential medicines while supporting the government’s efforts to make healthcare-related assistance more accessible to Filipinos facing financial hardship.
The DSWD said the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to ensure that individuals in crisis situations receive timely and responsive support, particularly in meeting urgent medical needs.
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