The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Consumer Protection Group (CPG), drafted the “2023 Revised Guidelines on the Recognition of Consumer Organizations” to enhance the existing Department Administrative Order (DAO) 17-07, as amended, or the “Guidelines on the Recognition of Consumer Organizations”.
The DTI recognizes the need to revisit and revise the existing guidelines to encourage meaningful participation of consumers and consumer organizations (COs) in the development and review of consumer laws, department rules, policies, and programs. Through the enhanced guidelines the DTI also aims to revitalize the involvement of consumer organizations in consumer-related activities and programs.
“We acknowledge the important role and valuable contributions of consumer organizations in consumer protection and we want to make it easier for them to be recognized and be proactive in the promotion of consumer empowerment,” CPG Undersecretary, Atty. Ruth B. Castelo, emphasized.
DTI Consumer Policy and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) Director, Atty. Marcus N. Valdez II underscores, “Among those enhancements were the removal of the enlistment fee, clearer delineation of the responsibilities of CPAB, regional and provincial offices, and enhancement of the provisions of suspensions and cancellations of recognition. With these revisions, we are hoping for the consumer organizations to have a more active participation in upholding consumer welfare and interest.”
A series of online public consultation on the revised guidelines was held to encourage participation of consumers, concerned government agencies, and other stakeholders on 07 March (for government agencies) and 08 March (for general public) 2023 via Zoom Video Conferencing. A copy of the draft guidelines can be accessed through the DTI website (https://www.dti.gov.ph/advisories/notice-public-consultation-revised-guidelines-recognition-consumer-organizations/). The consultation sessions were livestreamed through the DTI Consumer Care Facebook Page.
For more information, call One-DTI (1-384) Hotline or send an email to CPAB@dti.gov.ph. ♦
Date of Release: 13 March 2023