By David Vera
Borongan City in Eastern Samar province, has provided free medicines to 35,077 low-income residents through its local government-operated pharmacy since its establishment in September 2021. Located at the city hall complex, the main pharmacy has been complemented by satellite branches in Sta. Fe, San Jose, Lalawigan, Benowangan, and Maypangdan villages.
Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda highlighted the initiative’s impact, stating, “The program significantly reduces the burden of medical expenses for its constituents, especially those who fall within the low-income margin. Ensuring the good health of our residents is part of our efforts to achieve true progress because we believe that people are the strength of our city.”
The program has garnered recognition from the Department of Health during the Eastern Visayas Health Summit and Awards 2024 held on December 10 and 11.
To access the free medicines, beneficiaries must provide a valid doctor’s prescription. Maintenance medicine prescriptions must be issued within the past three months, while prescriptions for other medications must be dated within seven days. Additional requirements include a photocopy of the voter’s ID or certification, a birth certificate for patients under 18 years old, and, if applicable, an authorization letter with a valid ID for representatives claiming the medicines on behalf of a patient.