DSWD guarantee letters accepted at 24 CV pharmacies

CEBU, Philippines — Beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) can now have easier access to prescribed medicines under the government’s medical assistance program after the agency announced that guarantee letters are accepted at 24 participating pharmacy branches.

The guarantee letter is an official document that serves as the government’s assurance of payment for medicines and other services covered under DSWD assistance programs for qualified clients.

Participating Mercury Drug branches have been accepting DSWD-issued guarantee letters since June 22, 2026 under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

Of the 24 accredited branches, eight are located in Bohol while 16 are in Cebu Province.

DSWD-7 Director Shalaine Marie Lucero said the renewed partnership with the pharmacy is expected to improve access to medicines for beneficiaries requiring immediate medical assistance.

“The resumption of the partnership between DSWD and Mercury Drug here in Central Visayas is good news for our clients who need medical assistance. This collaboration will enable our beneficiaries to access prescribed medicines immediately, helping ensure that financial constraints do not delay their treatment and recovery. Through this partnership, we are bringing government services closer to the people and making our assistance more responsive, accessible, and client-centered,” Lucero said in a statement.

In Bohol, beneficiaries may redeem their guarantee letters at the following branches: Tagbilaran C.P. Garcia, Tagbilaran City Manga, Tagbilaran City Poblacion, Jagna Pagina, Talibon San Jose, Tubigon Poblacion, Ubay Poblacion, and Tagbilaran City Clarin.

Meanwhile, the participating branches in Cebu are located in Mandaue City Centro, Leon Kilat, Talisay City Tabunok along N. Bacalso Avenue, Fuente, Labangon Punta Princesa, Mabolo A. Soriano, Carcar San Vicente, Minglanilla Poblacion, Bogo Public Market, Lapu-Lapu City Dela Cerna, Danao City Poblacion Public Market, Argao Poblacion, Bantayan Binaobao, Liloan National Highway, Basak Pardo, and Bulacao Pardo.

The initiative is expected to provide faster and more convenient access to essential medicines, helping beneficiaries receive timely treatment without delays caused by financial limitations. (CEBU NEWS)