CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-10 awarded the prestigious Bagwis Seal to 35 exemplary business establishments in Northern Mindanao during a ceremony held in the city on October 9.
The Bagwis recognition highlights the business sector’s unwavering commitment to upholding consumer rights, providing quality goods and services, and fostering a fair and equitable business environment. It also serves as a valuable guide for consumers, helping them identify businesses that prioritize customer satisfaction and adhere to responsible business practices.
Of the 35 awardees, 10 are from Bukidnon, one is from Camiguin, six are from Lanao del Norte, six are from Misamis Occidental, and 12 are from Misamis Oriental.
DTI-10 Assistant Regional Director Almer R. Masillones expressed her pride in the awardees and emphasized the department’s dedication to consumer protection.
“For over 15 years, DTI has been giving due recognition to establishments that have been upholding the rights and welfare of consumers while practicing responsible business where consumers get the best value for money,” she stated.
Masillones explained that the Bagwis program has three categories: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. To earn the Bronze Seal, businesses must comply with fair trade laws and set up a consumer welfare desk or customer relations office. The Silver Seal requires meeting the Bronze criteria and actively participating in social responsibility initiatives. For the Gold Seal, businesses must fulfill the Silver requirements and integrate ISO 9001 quality management system standards into their operations.
This year, 21 establishments earned the Bronze Seal, 11 received the Silver Seal, and three achieved the Gold Seal of Excellence
Lawyer Fel Lester G. Brillantes, DTI-10’s Chief of the Consumer Protection Division, highlighted the significance of the Bagwis Seal in fostering trust between businesses and consumers.
“This is more than just a program; it’s a movement that empowers both businesses and consumers. It aims to create a marketplace built on trust, where consumers feel safe, and businesses thrive in fairness, integrity, and responsible practices,” he said.
Meanwhile, Masillones reiterated DTI’s commitment to creating a holistic business environment that benefits both businesses and consumers. “While we continue to advocate for consumers to assert their rights, it is equally important for businesses to acknowledge and uphold these consumer rights,” she said.
She emphasized that consumer protection is a shared responsibility and that businesses play a vital role in safeguarding the best interest of the buying public. (APB/PIA-10)
