DTI to consumers: Be cautious

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*A Press Release 

   ALABEL, Sarangani (October 13, 2016) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Sarangani accentuated the agency’s complementing duties as developmental for the consumers, and regulatory for the business sector, when it launched Consumer Welfare Month on Monday (October 10).

   Banking on the theme “Consumer Protection: A Shared Responsibility,” DTI provincial director Engr. Nenita Barroso said her office has been constantly reminding the public on their consumer rights. The DTI also closely monitors establishments if trade laws are properly implemented.

   Around six establishments in Sarangani had already been penalized since last year for violation on the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker. 

   “Kahit sabihin pa nilang binili lang nila from suppliers ang mga imported items na walang ICC mark, we still have to penalize them. Ignorance of the law excuses no one,” Barroso stressed. “Hindi sila dapat bibili ng walang ICC mark.”

   The ICC stickers protect consumers from substandard and uncertified import shipments as this scheme ensures that these products conform to the Philippine National Standards or international standards for performance and safety. 

   With this, Barroso is urging consumers to be vigilant on their purchases and not to patronize imported products not bearing ICC marks especially this Christmas season where the sale of uncertified Christmas lights is widespread.

   “Dapat yung standard na Christmas lights ang bibilhin natin, makakatulog pa tayo ng mahimbing. Kasi ang sub-standard ay nakaka-cause ng sunog,” Barroso said.

   “Dapat maging malakas tayo bilang consumers kasi we are protected by laws. It’s the policy of the state to protect the interest of the consumers, promote his general welfare and establish yung mga standards for the business and industry,” she added. 

   Meanwhile, Barroso also revealed that three establishments from Sarangani selling hardware products will be awarded on October 21 in the DTI head office with Bagwis Seal of Excellence bronze awards. This certification is a program of DTI which recognizes establishments practicing fair business while keeping the rights and welfare of consumers. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Beverly C. Paoyon)

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