MISAMIS ORIENTAL (PIA)--With the support of the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental, the Department of Trade and Industry-Misamis Oriental officially launched the celebration of Consumer Welfare Month 2023.

This celebration aligns with Proclamation No. 1098 under Republic Act No. 7394, which designates October of every year as a dedicated month for safeguarding consumers against unjust price hikes and fraudulent practices.

"The month-long celebration of consumer welfare aims to promote the sharing of vital information on topics that impact and foster dialogue and collaboration among consumers, businesses, and government sectors to enhance awareness and protection of consumer rights," DTI Misamis Oriental Provincial Director Almer Masillones said.

The theme "GenS: Generation Sustainable" highlights the rise of consumers who prioritize sustainability, the significance of responsible consumption, and the embrace of sustainable lifestyles to bring about meaningful and lasting change.

Masillones emphasized that this year's theme reinforces the need for consumers to consciously make sustainable choices in availing goods and services by supporting government-led initiatives and grassroots efforts in promoting sustainability.

With sustainability in consideration, DTI Misamis Oriental urges consumers to consider the seven Rs of Sustainability: Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Repurpose, Reuse, Recycle, and Repair.

"Every consumer has the right to protection against deceptive and fraudulent trade practices. Furthermore, consumers should have access to essential facts to make informed choices. However, it is important to keep informed that consumers, too, are responsible for asserting themselves and taking action to secure a fair deal," she added.

In celebration of Consumer Welfare Month, DTI Misamis Oriental rolled out various activities throughout October, including the Provincial Quiz Bowl on October 13; the Market Vendors Quiz at Cogon Market on October 18; Simultaneous Operation Timbangan in Cagayan de Oro City, Gingoog City, Tagoloan, and Alubijid during the third week of October; Kapihan sa PIA on October 18; the Misamis Oriental Retailers Association Information and Education Campaign on Fair-Trade Laws on October 20; and the Forum on Generation Sustainable on October 26.

DTI Misamis Oriental urges consumers to know their rights and responsibilities to ensure protection. They also invite consumers to participate in DTI-organized seminars and symposiums to stay alert about fair-trade laws and other consumer welfare regulations. (JAKA/PIA10)