NINE BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS FACE FAIR TRADE RAPS

BAGUIO CITY

Owners of nine business establishments in the Cordilleras are facing charges for allegedly violating fair trade law. In an interview, Jerry Agpes, Department of Trade and Industry-Cordillera (DTI CAR), Consumer Protection Division Chief said these business are in Service and Repair Enterprises (SREs), Hardware Stores and retailers of product under technical regulations. Under Republic Act 7394 (1991) , known as The Consumer Act of the Philippines aims to
protect the interest of consumer, promote general welfare and to establish standard conducts for business and industry.

Business establishments found violating the fair trade law and other regulations face fines/ imprisonment for two
months up to one year or deportation if the owner is a foreigner. The DTI official added their agency regularly conduct inspections to ensure the quality and safety of the product. Business establishments are monitored according to the standard of Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers, or the Philippine Standard (PS) mark.

He said the agency had resolved 41 consumer complaints, and as of June, 227 sales promotion permits were processed. In Service and Repair Enterprises (SRE), the agency had processed 139 (plus 4) applications to include Private Emission Testing Centers (PETC). Topping the agency’s consumer protection program is Bagwis program, which is to encourage business establishments to comply with the fair trade laws. Another is the Diskwento Caravan and Rolling Store program , bringing goods closer to the consumers with a discount.

These programs are brought into far barangays and municipalities. Also the agency regularly conduct trainings, seminars, forums, and orientations for consumers and business owners to inform them about the consumer rights and responsibilities of the business establishment.

Christina Pendre-UC Intern/ABN

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