Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa has announced a groundbreaking reform aimed at easing the lives of Filipino senior citizens. Under the newly signed Department of Health (DOH) Administrative Order No. 2024-0017, senior citizens are no longer required to present a purchase booklet to avail of their mandated discounts on medicines.

The administrative order, issued in line with the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, simplifies the process for seniors who previously had to carry a purchase booklet in addition to presenting valid identification and a doctor’s prescription.

“I am also a senior citizen. I know it is hard to always bring a purchase booklet with you. Seniors need the discount on their medicines, and we must make it easy for them to get that,” Secretary Herbosa said.

Herbosa emphasized that the change is a gesture of compassion and convenience, echoing the administration’s commitment to the welfare of elderly citizens. “On behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., we at the DOH give this gift of convenience and more affordable medicines to all of our senior citizens. Merry Christmas po!”

The initiative is expected to benefit millions of senior citizens nationwide, reinforcing the government’s dedication to enhancing public health access and support for the elderly.