There is a drugstore in downtown Iloilo City that is deemed an institution. The sad note is that it is headed for a closedown.

Socorro Drugstore started operating in Iloilo City in the 1940s. However, the prominent drugstore in Plazoleta Gay (or the Socorro Crossing) is set for closure by July 15, 2025.

Meriem Capillo, a vendor at the area for 28 years, praises the owner for being compassionate and helpful, but acknowledges that because change is constant and priorities do change, the closure is impending. 

Capillo said she accepts the fate of Socorro Drugstore, a landmark in Iloilo City, with a heavy heart.

“Nagpapa-thank you kami kay Inday Ruth (owner) na hindi niya kami pinaalis dito. At ngayon ay nalulungkot kami dahil hindi sigurado kung makakabalik pa kami kung ma-renovate na,” Meriem said.

Another vendor, Inday Beduyas, who spent 80 years vending in the area, older than the 78-year-old drugstore, said that she has fond memories of the owner of the establishment who has considered her family which means it is hard to bid goodbye to Socorro Drugstore.

“Kung December may pamasko kami. Nagpapasalamat talaga kami sa kanila. Kahit mawala pa, nandiyan pa rin sa aming puso ang pagmamahal sa kanila,” Aling Inday conveyed. 

The news team sought a comment from the drugstore owner, but a staff member granted an interview on their behalf.

“Ang closing is for renovation. May tina-target naman silang magre-rent,” Emelin Maldecir, the staff member, said.

Emelin who spent 33 years working in the establishment said renovation has to push through as the space is up for rental.

“Thank you very much sa kanilang kabaitan at pagka-philanthropist. At sa pag-serve namin sa mga tao dito sa Iloilo,” Emelin expressed.

However, Emelin and her colleagues are confident they would be keeping their jobs as the drugstore is keen on relocating in Pavia town, Province of Iloilo.