Starbucks apologizes for the notice that reduces the senior discount.

Angela Cole, the operations manager for the coffee chain, explained before a session called by House Speaker Martin Romualdez that the advice was incorrect. Last week, when it was posted in every Starbucks location across the country, it went viral on social media. She said that because it was "not properly worded," the corporation was aware that it generated misunderstanding.

"We are taking full accountability and acknowledge the mistake. We are disappointed at the confusion we caused because of the erroneous signage," Cole said.

Beginning on January 15, 2024, Starbucks Philippines removed a sign restricting the purchase of food and beverages with government discounts to senior citizens and people with disabilities (PWDs). After staff members proposed a suggested strategy, the signage was taken down, and Starbucks will keep giving its patrons full access to discounts.

While some tweeted that the move was "unacceptable" and referenced the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), others explained that seniors and people with disabilities (PWDs) take advantage of the discount privilege by using their IDs for multiple transactions to place orders in a single visit in order to get items at a reduced price.

While speaking with PhilSTAR L!fe Amanda Nograles, assistant secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, stressed that the regulation "does not limit one food item and one drink."

Rep. Joey Salceda took issue with PhilSTAR L!fe, a coffee chain!Charged for breaking the rules by only granting qualified customers 20% off cake slices and by failing to provide a "buy one, take one" promotion for seniors and those with disabilities.

"It only says for personal and exclusive consumption of the senior citizen or PWD. This cannot be limited by any establishment as long as the senior citizen or PWD is going to consume the food and drinks," she stated.

Via Philstar L!fe