DAGUPAN CITY, April 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Pangasinan is encouraging all business firms in the province to apply for the Bagwis Seal of Excellence.

Natalia Dalaten, provincial director of DTI-Pangasinan, said all retail establishments are encouraged to join DTI’s Bagwis Accreditation Program that gives due recognition to business firms that uphold the rights of consumers while practicing consumer welfare protection and social responsibility.

“DTI Bagwis is a certification program for business establishments that aims to promote and foster the higher level of business ethics and uphold a fair and honest marketplace through voluntary self-regulation and service excellence,” Dalaten said.

She said business establishments such as hardware stores, specialty stores, department stores, appliance centers, supermarkets or grocery stores, convenience stores and DTI-accredited service or repair shops can join the accreditation program.

Dalaten said to qualify for the program, business firms shall comply with Fair Trade Laws and must have a consumer welfare desk where consumers may lodge their complaints and other issues.

Dalaten disclosed that at least 282 business firms in Pangasinan were conferred with Bagwis Seal of Excellence.

“DTI ensures that recognized Bagwis awardees provide safe and quality products and services,” she said.

For inquiries, business owners or representative may visit DTI-Pangasinan Provincial Office located at the 2nd floor of Star Building, Arellano Street in Dagupan City or call at telephone number (075) 529-6177 or send an email at r01pangasinan@dti.gov.ph for further information. (JCR/JNPD/EMSA/PIA-1, Pangasinan)