Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 18) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has urged local authorities to issue ordinances banning the sale of medicines in sari-sari stores.
In a statement, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año also directed the Philippine National Police to immediately arrest violators who will continue selling such items, especially fake ones.
He told a briefing early this week that a memorandum will be issued instructing local government units to launch campaigns against people selling fake medicines.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also reported that 78 sari-sari stories were found illegally selling medicines out of the 185 reported to the agency in three regions. Of this number, 13 stores were also discovered to be distributing fake drugs.
Under Section 30 of the Philippine Pharmacy Act, only FDA-licensed retail drug outlets or pharmacies are allowed to sell drugs and medicine to the public.
Año said the department will work together with the drug regulator in issuing a memorandum circular to LGUs to help in the crackdown against unauthorized sale of medicines.
DILG spokesperson Jonathan Malaya also reminded the public to only purchase medicines in accredited drug stores and pharmacies.
The Special Law on Counterfeit Drugs provides that those possessing fake medicines face imprisonment of not less than six months and one day.
