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Negrenses told to be aware of consumer rights

By Erwin Nicavera

October 2, 2017, 7:19 pm

BACOLOD CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) urged Negrenses to be aware of their basic consumer rights as the agency leads the observance of Consumer Welfare Month this October.

Engiemar Tupas, senior trade and industry development specialist of DTI-Negros Occidental, said on Monday that consumers should make sure they get the right amount of products and the correct services they pay for.

“Consumers should be knowledgeable and vigilant in protecting their rights and welfare,” he said, adding that erring establishments should be reported to the DTI and other concerned agencies.

Tupas said that senior citizens and persons with disabilities are entitled to avail discounts especially on purchases of medicines.
DTI-Negros Occidental Provincial Director Lea Gonzales reminded establishments to comply with the guidelines and standards aimed to protect consumer rights and welfare.

Establishments are mandated to strictly follow suggested retail prices especially for basic and prime commodities, she added.
Gonzales also said that businesses should not deceive consumers by selling defective and substandard products.
Electrical products such as appliances, lighting items, and even construction materials must have Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) markings certified by the Bureau of Product Standards.

Republic Act 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, provides that it is the policy of the state to protect the interest of the consumer, provide his general welfare, and to establish standards of conduct for business and industry.

To kick off the Consumer Welfare Month, DTI-Negros Occidental organized a Consumer Fun Run 2017 in Bacolod on Sunday.

A series of seminars on consumer rights and welfare will also be held this October.

This year’s month-long observance is themed "Consumer Rights in the Digital Age." (PNA)

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