[1] It was established in 1937 as a small business venture engaged in the retail of Chinese herbal medicines, located in Naga, Camarines Sur, and is the oldest operating drugstore in the Philippines.

It faced competition from Watsons (which entered the Philippine market in 2002) and Mercury Drug.

Presently, Southstar Drug (also known as SSD) belongs to the top 1,000 corporations of the Philippines.

[3] From its origins in Southern Luzon, Southstar Drug has expanded its business by first putting up more stores in Southern Luzon, then in Northern Luzon (following the acquisition of Manson Drug chain in 2011) and the islands of Mindoro, Masbate, and Catanduanes (through Virac).

Southstar sells fresh medicines and goods in remote communities.