CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — Bayabas National High School claimed victory in the 2024 Consumer Welfare Month Provincial Quiz Bowl, hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Misamis Oriental Provincial Office on October 16.
Each October, the nation celebrates Consumer Welfare Month (CWM), a tradition established by Presidential Proclamation No. 1098, Series of 1997, from then-President Fidel Ramos.
This month-long event raises awareness about consumer rights, encourages dialogue among consumers, businesses, and government, and promotes reliable consumer information. Over the years, CWM has become a vital platform for strengthening consumer rights and fostering a proactive approach to consumer protection, particularly among youth.
“For the past two years, our quiz bowl in Misamis Oriental-Cagayan de Oro has attracted over 150 contestants from more than 100 public and private schools, making it the largest Provincial Quiz Bowl in the country,” said DTI Misamis Oriental OIC-Provincial Director Jesusa Abear.
Students from various public and private high schools showcased their knowledge of consumer rights and responsibilities in the contest. After the competition, James David M. Galimba from Bayabas National High School secured first place, followed by Neeka Ella Guillero from Gusa Regional Science High School in second, and China Sin-ingan from Gingoog Christian College in third.
Understanding Consumer Rights
Abear stressed the importance of understanding consumer rights as the first step toward ensuring fair treatment in the marketplace. Being informed about product warranties, return policies, pricing practices, and privacy helps consumers navigate the market confidently.
Staying aware of consumer issues, trends, and potential scams—researching products and services before purchasing—empowers consumers to make better decisions and foster a fairer, more transparent marketplace.
“By being smart and assertive about consumer rights, consumers protect themselves and contribute to a more equitable and transparent market. A proactive stance drives positive change and fosters a culture where consumer rights are acknowledged and upheld,” she said.
During the event, DTI highlighted the eight consumer rights: the right to basic needs, safety, information, choice, representation, redress, consumer education, and a healthy environment. Along with these rights, the trade department reminded students that understanding consumer responsibilities is equally crucial.
These responsibilities include being critically aware, making informed choices, demonstrating social and environmental concern, and fostering solidarity with fellow consumers. Passive consumers risk exploitation by unscrupulous businesses, while informed and proactive consumers can advocate for fairness and transparency.
Throughout Consumer Welfare Month, DTI Misamis Oriental reminds consumers that the best-protected consumer is the most educated and vigilant. By knowing their rights and fulfilling their responsibilities, consumers can help create a fairer, safer, and more equitable marketplace for everyone. (JAKA/PIA-10)
