Several national government agencies, consumer groups and business associations, and school-based consumer organizations from all over the region joined the Regional Consumer Organization Forum at Days Hotel, Iloilo City, recently.

Similar activities were being observed simultaneously by DTI Regional Offices nationwide in line with the celebration of the World Consumer Rights Day, with a theme, “Building a Digital World Consumers can Trust” on March 15, 2017.

DTI VI OIC-Regional Director Rebecca M. Rascon welcomed the participants, underscoring the active participation of Consumer Association of Bacolod City President 94-year-old Andrea S. Zolayvar, the oldest participant, during the activity.

DTI VI Trade Development Division Chief Felisa Judith Degala discussed the rationale of the activity to the participants; while, TIDS Rhea B. Jocsing and Earl Jay Posecion discussed the provisions of e-commerce, Shortchanging Act, accreditation of consumer organizations and the BAGWIS Program of the DTI.

BSP Senior Research Specialist Lowen Andrew June Ligad discussed the fake bills/ counterfeit currency and complaints handling mechanism of the agency; DSWD Social Welfare Officer III Judith T. Barredo talked on the programs for persons with disabilities and senior citizens; FDA Regional Supervisor Ma. Angeles D. Guzman shared the consumer’s health protection complaint handling mechanism, while Food and Drug regulation Officer Ma. Lexia T. Jancorda discussed the e-License to Operate Registration; NTC VI Engr. Dyjee Gallega elaborated on text scam; and, OSCA-Iloilo Head Elpidio D. Azuelo, Jr. shared their programs in Iloilo City.

Malls and supermarkets operators also shared their programs and best practices involving the use of digital technology in promoting consumerism. SM Hypermart Supervisor Jesselyn Suma shared their digital technology program on receiving/ inventories of products from suppliers; while, Robinsons Supermart Receiver Lobe Rose Chua talked about their complaints handling mechanism.

Olaygar acknowledged that all topics presented gave them more information of how different government agencies and business establishments are able to share their public relations with their company and the good public relationship practices with customers.

The event aims to highlight and promote the basic rights and responsibilities of all consumers.