Beginning today, March 25, senior citizens and persons with disabilities in the Philippines can now enjoy a higher special discount when buying food, medicine, and other prime commodities each week, thanks to a joint administrative order that increases the weekly cap on discounts.
A senior citizen buying medicine at a Watsons pharmaceutical store
Watsons, the leading retailer in health, wellness, and beauty products, has wholeheartedly supported this new administrative order that extends additional discounts to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) for basic necessities and will implement the special discounted rates in all its stores.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Energy, has ratified a joint administrative order introducing a 5% special discount for senior citizens and PWDs.
In a significant update to the administrative order, the special discount has been elevated from Php65 to Php125 per week, with a commitment to reassess this every five years.
Moreover, the purchase limit has been raised to P2,500 weekly, a substantial increase from the previous cap of P1,300. These adjustments reflect a concerted effort to better align the discounts with the current economic landscape and the needs of senior citizens and PWDs, ensuring they have greater access to essential goods without undue financial strain.
The special discount is still separate from the 20 per cent statutory discount granted under Republic Act 9994 or “the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010” and Republic Act 10754 or “Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of PWDs.”
Watsons stores fully support the enhanced discounts for Seniors and PWDs
Watsons recognizes the importance of this initiative in addressing the challenges faced by senior citizens and PWDs, particularly amid rising costs and fixed incomes.
Through its collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), led by FDA Director General Dr. Samuel A. Zacate and ably supported by Ms. Joyce Cirunay, Director of the Center for Drug Regulation and Research (CDRR), Watsons is committed to supporting and facilitating the implementation of this law across its stores. By working closely with regulatory authorities and actively participating in initiatives that benefit vulnerable communities, Watsons reaffirms its dedication to social responsibility and inclusivity.
About Watsons Philippines:
Watsons is the flagship health and beauty brand of A.S. Watson Group, the world’s largest international health & beauty retailer. Today, Watsons is the leading health and beauty brand with successful operations in 15 markets.
In 2002, A.S. Watson Group joined hands with SM Prime Holdings Inc., the Philippines; leading shopping mall developer. The partnership brought about the first Watsons stores in SM Megamall and The Podium (Ortigas). Today, Watsons operates 1000+ stores in the Philippines serving more than 100,000 customers per day.
Watsons strives to ensure that its customers get the best value for their money through monthly promotions, special offers, and continuous consumer marketing programs.
Each Watsons store houses nothing but the best brands from top manufacturers all over the world and also carries its own competitively priced, high-quality private labels and brands.
With more than 1000 brands ranging from medicines, cosmetics, and fragrances to personal care items and general merchandise, Watsons Your Personal Store delivers only the best health, wellness, and beauty solutions to every customer.