DTI Antique Trade and Industry Development Specialist Arnel Oliveros, in a press release, explained that the Bagwis Seal of Excellence is part of the DTI’s program recognized by the ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP) as one of the best practices of the country in consumer protection.

This program recognizes establishments that are duly registered with various government registering bodies such as DTI, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). 

It also checks on the compliance of the establishments to the requirements of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Pag-IBIG Fund, Social Security System, PhilHealth and Local Government Unit’s requirement for Business Permit.

The Bagwis Award is one of the major programs of DTI that recognizes business establishments promoting and fostering the highest level of business ethics through responsible practices. 

The committee has evaluated seven retail establishments; one is a new applicant, five are for re-assessment/revalidation, and one intends to upgrade its award status.

These establishments have met the program's requirements and passed the parameters. They are subsequently recommended to the Regional Bagwis Committee scheduled in September.

The Bagwis Seal or Excellence has three categories- bronze, silver, and gold. In the previous years, 10 establishments in the province were awarded with the said seal of excellence. (AGP/PSM/PIA Antique with reports from DTI)