TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN — The Consumer Network convened for its 2nd Quarterly Meeting at the DTI Regional Office 02, Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. The meeting was facilitated through the collaborative efforts between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 02 and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 02.

The main agendum of the meeting was the ConsumerNet’s preparation for the upcoming launch of the Consumer-CONNECT Online Program, an important milestone in the network’s journey to champion consumer rights and enhance consumer welfare.

Consumer-CONNECT, an acronym for “Consumer CONversations Necessary for Empowerment and Championing Consumer Rights throughout Transitions,” aims to serve as a valuable platform for disseminating information on consumer rights, welfare, and protection. This program, jointly developed by DTI Region 02 and PIA Region 02, seeks to empower consumers with knowledge and create an informed consumer base.

Assistant Regional Director Winston T. Singun expressed his profound gratitude for member-agencies’ active involvement and dedication in promoting consumer rights. ARD Singun emphasized the importance of collaboration and encouraged all participants to actively engage in the discussions and preparations for the launching of Consumer-CONNECT Online Program.

Serafin Umoquit, Head of the Consumer Protection Unit, presented an insightful overview of the Consumer-CONNECT Online Program. He highlighted the benefits of the program, emphasizing its potential impact in leveling up consumer awareness.

During the meeting, Legal Unit Officer-in-Charge Atty. Angie U. Gumaru introduced the structure of the Consumer-CONNECT program. Atty. Gumaru highlighted its key features such as the objectives of the program, program structure, program flow, including the possible menu of topics.

Meanwhile, Assistant Regional Director of PIA Region 2 Mr. Oliver Baccay shared his expertise by delivering a lecture on the proper decorum for radio and TV broadcasting. His insightful presentation shed light on the importance of maintaining professionalism and adhering to ethical standards in media communications. ARD Baccay also emphasized the importance of ensuring accurate and responsible dissemination of information through media channels.

Following the lecture, ARD Oliver Baccay facilitated a simulation exercise, dividing the participants into two groups. This interactive activity allowed the participants to apply the principles learned during the lecture, fostering their practical understanding and enhancing their skills in effective broadcasting.

To conclude the event Chief-of-Staff Elena Marie V. Ferrer, the current OIC of the Consumer Protection Division of DTI R2, delivered the closing remarks, expressing her gratitude to all the participants for their active participation and valuable contributions during the meeting. She emphasized the network’s commitment to advancing consumer rights and welfare and encouraged everyone to continue their collaborative efforts in safeguarding consumers.

The Consumer Network’s 2nd Quarterly meeting served as a stepping stone towards the successful launch of the Consumer-CONNECT Online Program. With the combined efforts of DTI Region 2, PIA Region 2, and the members of the Consumer NETWORK, this program is expected to empower consumers, and equip them with the necessary information to become an informed consumer.

The Consumer-Connect is targeted to be launched on June 08, 2023, via the PIA Facebook Page.

Region 2 FB post.

Date of release: 26 May 2023