Twenty-four Mercury Drug branches in Central Visayas have begun accepting guarantee letters issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 7, enabling qualified beneficiaries to obtain prescribed medicines more quickly. The move expands access to medical assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.
Partnership Resumed in June 2026
DSWD 7 confirmed that the participating Mercury Drug stores have been honoring guarantee letters since June 22, 2026. DSWD 7 Director Shalaine Marie Lucero highlighted the significance of the renewed collaboration.
“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,” said Lucero. “Through this partnership, we are bringing government services closer to the people and making our assistance more responsive, accessible and client-centered,” she added.
How Guarantee Letters Work
According to DSWD, guarantee letters replace direct cash assistance to ensure proper use of funds. Beneficiaries present the letters at partner pharmacies and other accredited outlets to purchase prescribed or maintenance medicines. The letters also cover essential medical needs such as hospital bills, dialysis, chemotherapy, implants, and funeral assistance. This system allows individuals and families in crisis to access needed services directly without advancing cash.
Branch Locations
The participating branches are distributed across Cebu Province and Bohol—16 in Cebu and eight in Bohol.
Cebu branches: Mandaue City Centro; Cebu Leon Kilat; Barangay Tabunok on N. Bacalso Ave., Talisay City; Cebu Fuente; Barangay Punta Princesa in Labangon, Cebu City; Mabolo (A. Soriano St.), Cebu City; Barangay San Vicente in Carcar City; Barangay Poblacion in Minglanilla; Bogo Public Market; Dela Cerna in Lapu-Lapu City; Danao City Poblacion Public Market; Barangay Poblacion in Argao; Barangay Binaobao in Bantayan; Liloan National Highway; Barangay Basak Pardo, Cebu City; and Barangay Bulacao Pardo, Cebu City.
Bohol branches: Barangays Manga, Poblacion, Clarin, and C.P. Garcia in Tagbilaran City; Barangay Pagina in Jagna; Barangay San Jose in Talibon; Barangay Poblacion in Tubigon; and Barangay Poblacion in Ubay.
