BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry Cordillera (DTI-CAR) reminds the public to assert their consumer rights, and at the same time, be responsible consumers.
DTI-CAR Consumer Welfare Division Jeremias Agpes said that as much as the consumer has rights, they must also be mindful of their responsibilities.
“We have this consumer right and we have to assert but we also have a responsibility as consumers, so we need to check the products that we are buying, our preference. If there is a mere change of mind, there is no defect or problem in the product or service [we availed], in that case, we may not be applying that tagline na the consumer is always right,” Agpes reminded.
He added that responsible consumers must also take note of their responsibility for social concern as well as for environmental concern.
Agpes emphasized that when consumers transact, they must be aware of the impact of their consumption or purchases to avoid harming others or the environment.
“When we do our consumption, when we transact, we have to be aware of the impact or effect of our consumption, with our social effect and even the effect on the environment. Just make sure not to compromise other people and even the environment,” he said.
To avoid buying defective or substandard products, Agpes said consumers must check the Philippine Standard Quality and/or Safety Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker to ensure that what they have purchased are certified quality and safety products conforming to the Philippine National Standards.
Consumers may download the ICC verification app to check or verify if the ICC sticker on the products is legit.
Meanwhile, Agpes advised consumers who received defective products to talk with the concerned establishment about the concern and ask for a refund. If the issue is not settled, the consumer may seek assistance from the nearest DTI office in their area so that the issue will undergo DTI proceedings.
In Cordillera, the DTI-CAR has received numerous complaints relative to defective products and unfair sales acts or practices that were subjected to mediation proceedings. Most were resolved under the mediation level but there are two complaints pending adjudication, Agpes said.
Under the Consumer Act of the Philippines, DTI may impose administrative fines of up to P300,000 to erring establishments or imprisonment if necessary, depending on the gravity of the offense. (JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)
