Generika Drugstore was established in September 2003 to address the need for quality and affordable medicines, and promote the use of generic drugs in the context of high prices of medicines in the country. When Mr. Teodoro Ferrer was approaching retirement after working for more than 30 years with the Ayala Group of Companies, he was planning to venture into the real estate business taking advantage of his exposure in Ayala. However, his decision took a sudden turn when Mr. Julien Bello, his close associate in a foundation for microfinance, brought up the sad plight of many Filipinos who cannot afford to complete their medication due to the prohibitive cost of branded medicines.