MAKATI CITY -- As the country observes Consumer Welfare Month (CWM), the Department of Trade and Industry assures the public of its increased efforts to protect consumers from unfair sales practices and unscrupulous businesses.

Under Republic Act No. 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the DTI is tasked to enforce quality and safety standards of consumer products and services not under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture (DA), which is on agricultural products, and the Department of Health (DOH), which is on food, drugs, cosmetics, devices, and substances.

Expanding the government’s efforts to safeguard consumers, Republic Act No. 10611 or the Food Safety Act of 2013 mandates the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to develop food standards and regulations, among others, while the National Nutrition Council (NNC), chaired by the DOH, is mandated to formulate national food and nutrition policies and strategies for nutritional improvement. The DOH or the FDA examines the composition and content of processed food products for hazardous components or ingredients, including instant noodles.

“We are committed to assist concerned government agencies and connect them with the manufacturers of these products. Rest assured that the government is working to ensure that consumer goods in the market are safe for consumers,” the Trade Chief said.

For consumer-related concerns and queries, send an email to ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph or call the One-DTI (1-384) Hotline. (DTI)