Rep. Ma. Theresa Bonoan-David (Manila, 4th District) yesterday pushed for more accessible pharmacies as these are normally non-existent in barangays outside of the town centers, a press release from her office said.

"Most of our people in the countryside are deprived of access even to basic drugs and medicines when they are in need," David said.

This defeats the policy of the state to protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them, David said.

In House Bill 6191, David seeks to institutionalize the Botica sa Barangay Program to address the basic need of the people especially those living in far-flung areas.

She said that economically depressed barangays shall be given highest priority in the establishment of a barangay drugstore.

The bill provides that the Botica sa Barangay shall make available only those drugs included in the "core list" of the national drug formulary, the press release said.

The sale of medicines at the Botica sa Barangay shall be facilitated by an aide, known as the Botica sa Barangay Aide, chosen by and trained under the Department of Health as mandated under the measure.*

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