The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) R2 Cagayan, in collaboration with the Local Government of Allacapan successfully launched the 9th Consumer Welfare Assistance Center (CWAC) in the province, the 28th in Region 2 on 28 August 2024. The event marked a significant milestone in the town’s commitment to upholding consumer rights and ensuring the welfare of its citizens.

In her opening message, Hon. Yvonne Kathrina S. Florida, Vice Mayor of Allacapan, thanked the agency as she emphasized how important the CWAC is in providing timely consumer assistance and addressing concerns related to trade and entrepreneurship.

One of the key highlights was the presentation of Municipal Ordinance No. 2024-11-001 by Hon. Mark Anthony Donato, SB Member and Chairman of the Committee on Public Market, Trade, and Entrepreneurship. This ordinance amends Section 4A.03 under Chapter IV (Rules and Regulations), Article A (Miscellaneous Provisions) of the Municipal Ordinance No. 2013-04, known as the Allacapan Market Code of 2013, providing additional provisions aimed at further strengthening consumer protection measures in the municipality.

Meanwhile, Atty. Cyrus Restauro, CPD Chief of DTI R02, presented a detailed rationale for the CWAC. This was followed by a message of support from Hon. Harry Florida, Mayor of Allacapan, delivered by his representative, Municipal Administrator Atty. Roger Real Paz Jr. Additionally, EnP. Rommel Ursua, MPDC of Allacapan, shared his insights, highlighting the significance of the center for local consumers and businesses.

The official opening of the CWAC was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing a new era in consumer protection for the town, and providing residents with a dedicated center for resolving consumer issues and ensuring fair trade practices. The program was followed by an orientation on PalengQRPH Plus, conducted by Ms. Maria Elena A. Madriaga, Bank Officer IV of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), highlighting the integration of digital payment solutions in local markets.

Following the CWAC launch, an afternoon session provided additional educational opportunities for the participants. Atty. Angie U. Gumaru, OIC-DC of CPD-DTI R2 Cagayan, led a review of DTI’s Fair-Trade Laws, reinforcing the importance of legal compliance among businesses. This was followed by an onboarding session on cashless payment systems via GCash, facilitated by Mr. Stephen Infante, Channel Distributor Manager of GCash North Luzon, which aimed to integrate digital payment solutions within the local market. Ms. Madriaga of BSP, also conducted a session on how to determine genuine Philippine currency, equipping attendees with essential financial literacy skills.

Also in attendance were Mr. Telynor Dal. Ponce Jr., Secretary to the Sangguniang Bayan; Ms. Jeni-Wilma Paudan, Municipal Treasurer; Mr. Hipolito Arquero Jr., Municipal Agricultural Officer; Mr. Emmanuel R. Reynoso, Assistant Registration Officer; Ms. Cherryl Dumayag, Trade Industry Development Specialist of DTI R2 Cagayan; Ms. Twinkle Joy Soliven, Junior Business Counselor of NC Allacapan; other LGU personnel; BFP Allacapan and PNP Allacapan representative; consumers; and market vendors.

Posted on Facebook on September 3, 2024.