Take the time to learn about your rights. Empower yourself to be a savvy consumer and demand fair treatment in the marketplace. You deserve it!
This October, we celebrate Consumer Welfare Month under the theme “Be Smart, Assert Your Consumer Rights!”, Natalia Dalaten, provincial director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Pangasinan, said as she underscores the crucial importance of consumer awareness.
She emphasizes that understanding your rights is essential for a safe and fair shopping experience.
Dalaten outlines eight fundamental consumer rights that everyone should be familiar with to navigate the marketplace confidently.
Right to basic needs
Consumers have the right to access essential resources necessary for survival, including adequate food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare, and while every consumer has the right to purchase these necessities, Dalaten strongly advises prioritizing needs over mere wants.
She reminded consumers that they must understand the importance of choosing quality over quantity when purchasing a product, ensuring it meets the Philippine Standard (PS).
“Do not engage in panic buying. During times of calamity, such as typhoons, it is important to remain calm and vigilant to prevent rushing, which can lead to unnecessary product shortages,” Dalaten called.
Right to safety
To protect consumers from hazardous products, labels indicating potential dangers should be included on these products.
“Those sensitive to certain ingredients must read product labels to immediately identify contents and avoid dangers, while appliance consumers must heed warnings, product testing, and manuals to prevent hazards, such as malfunctions that could lead to accidents,” Dalaten advised.
She added that consumers should check the PS mark on local products, while for imported items, the package should display the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) label to ensure that the goods meet safety standards.
Right to information
Consumers are entitled to truthful advertising and clear product labeling to protect themselves against misleading claims.
They have the right to receive accurate information and details, such as the number of pieces, proper handling, and manufacturer, to avoid products that lack quality assurance.
Dalaten said that consumers should be aware of the manufacturer’s details and that it is wise to read labels carefully.
Before signing waivers, warranties, or service contracts, ensure that all provisions are understood.
Dalaten said that a receipt is essential as proof of purchase for addressing concerns like false advertising in online shops; however, if damage is proven to be caused by the consumer, the company can refuse the refund.
Right to choose
Consumers have the right to choose from a variety of products at competitive prices while ensuring quality.
Dalaten advised buyers to compare prices for similar goods available in the market and to understand the differences between generic and branded products to ensure informed decisions before making a purchase.
“Verifying prices is an important aspect of a consumer’s right to choose. Do not rush into buying just because something is advertised as 50% off. Investigate the true value,” she cautioned.
Moreover, she advised that when selecting products, reading the labels—especially bundled items—is essential to avoid purchasing expired goods.
Right to representation
Consumers have the right to express their interest in government policymaking and to be involved in the execution of policies that affect their lives.
Dalaten urged consumers to be vigilant about how consumer laws are implemented in their area and to report any discrepancies.
Once they noticed a price discrepancy between the shelf and the counter, Dalaten advised approaching the Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD) at the business establishment where the purchase was made.
Right to redress
This ensures that consumers can seek compensation for defective products.
Dalaten said that if a defective product is purchased, the buyer is entitled to the 3Rs: Return, Refund, and Replacement.
If a store fails to address a concern, consumers can file a report to the nearest DTI office in the area.
In Pangasinan, the DTI office is located at Arellano Street in Dagupan City.
Right to consumer education
Consumer education and awareness play a crucial role in promoting fairness in the marketplace, ensuring that individuals can purchase goods without facing disadvantages.
This right empowers consumers to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for informed decision-making.
Dalaten urged the public to engage in meetings organized for consumer concerns, which are also posted by the DTI on its Facebook page, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about the events for the sake of public interests.
Follow DTI Pangasinan’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Pangasinan for updates and inquiries.
Right to a healthy environment
Finally, this right allows consumers to live and work in safe conditions.
Dalaten advocates for practices that promote environmental sustainability.
“It is essential for stores and shops to have sanitation laws and to practice the 3 Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—for environmental protection, along with ongoing monitoring of our natural resources,” she said.
By being informed, consumers not only empower themselves with knowledge but also enhance their purchasing experience in the marketplace.
This ensures that their needs, safety, and fairness are prioritized, all supported by their acquired knowledge and rights as consumers.
Understanding these eight rights not only empowers individuals but also fosters a culture of responsible consumption. These are your rights, and they need to be respected and protected at all times. (MJTAB/AMB/JCDR/AQA/PIA Pangasinan)
