Promesecal Director avoids answering about the lack of medicines in Farmacias del Pueblo

Santo Domingo.- Amidst growing citizen complaints about the lack of medications in Farmacias del Pueblo, the director of the Essential Medicines and Central Logistics Support Program (Promesecal), José Luis López Pérez, refused today to offer a detailed explanation to the media when approached by journalists at a public event. The incident was recorded and disseminated by several local news accounts on social media, where the official is seen avoiding answering questions about the shortage of medicines which, according to users, affects several communities in the country.

Over the past few weeks, Dominican residents have expressed their concern about the absence of essential medications in popular pharmacies and "Farmacias del Pueblo", noting that the lack of supply complicates the care of chronic diseases and minor emergencies. Testimonials circulating on platforms like Instagram show citizen complaints about "empty" pharmacies or those with limited inventory, generating discomfort among patients and families who depend on these services for ongoing treatments. Despite the complaints and the presence of television cameras, director López Pérez evaded directly addressing the causes of the shortages at public dispensing points, opting for general management statements without going into specific details. In clips shared on social media, it is observed how the official tries to deflect the reporters' questions, stating that he is not aware of a "widespread" lack of medicines, although social discontent seems to show the opposite. Patient and citizen organizations have called for a clear response and immediate action from PROMESE/CAL and the Ministry of Public Health to guarantee access to essential medicines, especially during this period of high demand. The claims include transparency about available inventories and a supply plan that ensures that Dominicans are not left without necessary treatments. The fact has revived the debate on the effectiveness of the Farmacias del Pueblo network and the ability of the authorities to address the shortages in the country's public pharmaceutical system.