The Department of Trade and Industry released Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 01 series of 2022 laying down guidelines on the provision of the mandatory statutory benefits and privileges of the senior citizens and persons with disabilities on their online purchases.

The circular was jointly issued by DTI, Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Commission of Senior Citizens, National Council on Disability Affairs, Department of Health, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Bureau of Internal Revenue.

Under the guidelines, senior citizens and PWDs may avail of their discount when purchasing medicines and Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities (BNPCs) through electronic or digital channels. Transactions over phone calls and SMS are also included.
To avail of the discount, Senior Citizens and PWDs must, prior to placement of order, declare to the online platform/merchant that he/she is a Senior Citizen or a Person with Disability. Upon confirmation of orders, they must send a copy of their Senior Citizen or PWD ID, together with the identification page of their purchase booklets. In addition, medical prescription slips must also be presented when purchasing medicines.

If the transaction is made through phone call or SMS, the Senior Citizen or PWD must, upon placement of order, declare his/her name, date of birth, and senior citizen or PWD ID number.

Upon delivery of the purchased medicines and BNPC, they must again present their ID and purchase booklet to the delivery person for confirmation. Failure to do so may charge them with the full amount of their purchased goods.

Under the law, Senior Citizens and PWDs enjoy 20% discount on medicines and medical supplies, foods, drinks, desserts, and other consumable items while they get 5% discount on Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities purchases.

DTI also reminds online selling platforms to reconfigure or include in their systems a mechanism whereby Senior Citizens and PWDs will be able to avail the statutory discount.

In cases where establishments or platforms do not honor the discount, aggrieved persons can always call any of the implementing agencies in the JMC for appropriate actions. They can also call DTI’s consumer hotlines (1-DTI / 1-384), or email at ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph or visit their nearest DTI Provincial Office.