First Pambansang Botika is now open—here's what to know
Filipinos have a new option for affordable healthcare.
Pambansang Botika, established by Philippine Pharma Procurement Inc. in partnership with the Social Security System, is a government-supported franchise pharmacy that offers essential medicines, vaccines, and health products to SSS members, pensioners, and walk-in clients.
The first-ever store opened at the SSS Diliman Branch in Quezon City in Sept. 29. Operating as a one-stop shop, it combines pharmacy services with PhilHealth’s YAKAP (Yakapin ang Kalusugan at Aking Pamilya) program, allowing visitors to purchase medicines or access health services while waiting for their SSS transactions.
A key advantage of the program is it offers lower-priced generic medicines through direct bulk procurement. As PPPI President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim Lokin explained, sourcing high-quality generic drugs directly from manufacturers in India, China, and the Philippines eliminates intermediary markups.
The SSS Diliman branch currently carries more than 200 medicines, including 76 essential medicines covered by PhilHealth's YAKAP program. Some examples reported by Radyo Pilipinas include amlodipine 5 mg at P1 per tablet, losartan 100 mg at P5, and metformin 500 mg at P1.50.
Who can buy from Pambansang Botika?
The facility is open to SSS members, pensioners, and even non-SSS members. Those looking to purchase maintenance medicines will need a doctor's prescription.
Qualified PhilHealth beneficiaries can also access healthcare services through the YAKAP program, including consultations and diagnostic services.
At the SSS Diliman branch, eligible beneficiaries may also receive prescribed medicines covered by the PhilHealth GAMOT package.
Franchising a store
PPPI is set to expand its drugstores to more SSS branches and key regional areas. SSS President Robert Joseph De Claro and PPPI President Maria Blanca Kim Lokin confirmed the initiative will roll out a franchise model open to local government units, entrepreneurs, and corporate partners.
According to PPPI, they will supply the franchisee with store design, layout, and guidelines to "create a consistent experience for customers." They will also assist by providing comprehensive training for the staff, assist with obtaining necessary licenses, and support their marketing
efforts.
The initial franchise fee covers a 3-year contract and is renewable annually for a small fee.
The SSS Diliman branch is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
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