Rodriguez backs call to lift senior purchase booklet requirement

COUNCILOR Maximo T. Rodriguez supported Councilor Gilda Go’s special report on the issues surrounding the senior citizens’ purchase booklet, describing the current situation as a “clash of policy and practice”.

Go reported complaints from senior citizens about the incomplete and selective implementation of the “no booklet” policy for availing statutory discounts on medicines and essential medical goods.

Rodriguez said that while the booklet was originally intended to help monitor purchases it has ironically become a barrier to the very privileges it was meant to protect.

He emphasized that forgetfulness is a natural part of aging, and denying seniors their rightful benefits simply because they fail to bring the booklet is “the height of injustice.”

Rodriguez also announced that on November 21, 2025, he filed an ordinance seeking to remove the requirement for commercial establishments to demand the purchase booklet from seniors when availing discounts on goods, especially medicines.

The proposed measure is set for committee deliberation next month.

The proposed ordinance adopts FDA Circular No. 2025-005, anchored on RA 9994 (Expanded Senior Citizens Act) and DOH Administrative Order 2024-0017, which clearly state that the law does not require senior citizens to present a purchase booklet.

Instead, only a valid ID proving age and birthdate, and a prescription, when necessary, are required.

Rodriguez said he welcomes further inputs from the Council to refine and strengthen the ordinance, with the goal of ensuring that senior citizens fully receive the privileges due to them. (JDO/SP)