DTI R2 Cagayan, LGU Lasam strengthen ties with 8th CWAC Launch in province | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

The Department of Trade and Industry R2 Cagayan Provincial Office, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Lasam, launched the 23rd Consumer Welfare Assistance Center (CWAC) in Region 2, and the 8th CWAC in the province of Cagayan, at the Lasam Public Market on 10 July 2024.

Before the launch, RD Ma. Sofia Gumiran Narag, CESO V, the newly appointed Regional Director of DTI R2, paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Engr. Dante Dexter A. Agatep, Jr., Mayor of Lasam. During their meeting, they discussed future collaborations between the LGU and DTI to further enhance consumer protection and business development initiatives in the municipality.

The CWAC Launching commenced with a message from RD Narag who highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the LGU’s flagship slogan, “NATALGED NGA LASAM.” She expressed optimism that the CWAC would significantly contribute to the municipality’s goal of creating a stable and consumer-friendly environment.

Meanwhile, Mayor Agatep in his message, emphasized the significance of the CWAC in addressing consumer complaints more effectively and fostering a responsible marketplace. He noted that the CWAC will be instrumental in resolving issues that have previously been aired on social media, stressing that such platforms are not conducive to resolving problems.

Hon. Federico O. Castro, Vice Chairman of the Committee on Cooperatives, Trade & Industry, presented Municipal Ordinance No. 2024-005 by underscoring the legal framework supporting the establishment of the CWAC, price boards, Timbangan ng Bayan, and mandatory price tags in the public market.

Atty. Cyrus Restauro, CPD Chief of DTI R2, provided a detailed rationale for the CWAC, emphasizing its dual benefits for both consumers and business owners. He stated, “The CWAC is a crucial step towards ensuring that consumer rights are protected while also aiding businesses in maintaining fair practices.”

Moreover, a briefing on consumer complaint handling by Lourdito B. Antonio, CPD Chief of DTI R02 Cagayan, highlighted the importance of understanding both consumer rights and business responsibilities. He encouraged stakeholders to utilize the CWAC for resolving disputes amicably, rather than resorting to social media, or getting into unethical confrontations.

Positive impressions of the initiative were shared by Reenie Heidy C. Tollo, MLGOO, and Edes G. Castro, Market Administrator, who commended the collaboration between DTI and the LGU. They expressed confidence that the CWAC would significantly improve market operations and consumer satisfaction.

In his message delivered by SB Hon. Lilibeth Del Rosario, Vice Mayor Randy C. Cambe commended the efforts of DTI in launching the CWAC. He also praised the active participation of consumers and business owners, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring the success of initiatives aiming to promote consumer welfare and fostering fair business practices within the community.

The event concluded with the ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the CWAC Center. This was followed by a market visit conducted by the DTI team, which included inspections to ensure compliance with price tags and the Timbangan ng Bayan. Following that, the team traveled the Lasam Cacao Processing Center intending to explore further cacao product development initiatives in the municipality.

Also present during the event were the different LGU Department Heads, different barangay captains, OSCA Head, PWD Association President, DTI R2 Cagayan team, NC JBC Kristine Supapo, business owners, and the general consumers. ♦

Date of release: 11 July 2024

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