The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Consumer Protection Group, continues to coordinate with the Local Government Units in conducting the Diskwento Caravan in their respective cities and municipalities. The objective of this initiative is to provide consumers with basic necessities and prime commodities at discounted prices, in cooperation with the established manufacturers and distributors.

Over the past year, the DTI successfully conducted fifteen (15) Diskwento Caravans, around Metro Manila with total sales amounting to Php7,083,268.41. The CPAB is in close coordination with the manufacturers and distributors of basic necessities and prime commodities, school supplies and Noche Buena products among others.

To enhance this program, the Department institutionalizes its Konsyumer Assembly sa Barangay to be simultaneously conducted with the Diskwento Caravan. This is to take advantage of the opportunity while providing discounted products, the DTI is also educating consumers on their rights and responsibilities, salient features of the Consumer Act, Price Act, Standards Law and other Fair Trade Laws.

Six (6) Konsyumer Assembly sa Barangay were organized by the Department with the Local Government Units including Parañaque, Pasay, Navotas, Taguig, Mandaluyong, and Makati last 2019. An average of ninety-one percent (91%) consumer satisfactory rate from the participants feedback, proves the effectivity of this program in raising consumer awareness.

“Our main goal is to empower the consumers, and the best way to do that is to educate them so they may exercise their rights as well as practice their responsibilities.” Said Consumer Protection Group Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo.

“The Department recognizes the vital role of the cities and municipalities in ensuring wise, vigilant and informed consumers”, Undersecretary Castelo added.

Visit the DTI Consumer Care Facebook page for announcements of consumer programs and activities. ♦

Date of Release: 4 March 2020