ILOILO CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Office VI is reminding the importance of consumer rights awareness among the public. DTI VI Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Rachel Nufable reiterated that consumers must be knowledgeable about and assertive of their basic rights to ensure their protection.

OIC-RD Nufable pointed out how important it is to understand consumer rights, which are basically the things you’re entitled to as a consumer such as access to basic needs, safety, information, choice, representation, redress, consumer education, and a healthy environment.

“If we comprehend our rights and responsibilities as consumers, we empower ourselves to become vigilant consumers,” she emphasized.

As part of the agency’s consumer advocacy efforts, DTI VI will launch a new radio program entitled “Istorya Trabaho Negosyo, Konsyumer (TNK)”. The program, developed in partnership with Radyo Pilipinas, a government station in Iloilo City, will air every first Sunday of the month starting March 10, at 02:00 PM.

In line with the upcoming World Consumer Rights Day on March 15th, the pilot episode of Istorya TNK will center on discussions regarding consumer rights and responsibilities. The program will also include a segment addressing frequently asked questions directed at DTI Region VI through their official communication channels such as Facebook, e-mail and phone.

Recognizing the influence of broadcast media in fostering engagement with constituents, DTI Region VI views this initiative as instrumental in disseminating crucial information on national government advocacies and their regional implementations.

While OIC-RD Nufable encourages consumers to assert their rights, she also advises them to practice their five consumer responsibilities at all times. This means being aware of issues, taking action when necessary, caring about society and the environment, and standing together in solidarity with others.

The radio program launch is just one of the activities scheduled by DTI Region VI in celebration of Consumer Rights Day. The pilot episode will be broadcasted on Radyo Pilipinas DYLL 585 KHz and streamed on DTI Region VI’s official Facebook page.

In the upcoming episodes of Istorya TNK, viewers can expect a range of topics covering DTI programs for youth and Persons with Disabilities (PWD), business support through Negosyo Centers, assistance for small, micro, and medium enterprises from DTI, discussions on developing priority industries, consumer welfare initiatives, participation in trade fairs, and tips for back-to-school and holiday season shopping.

Each episode aims to provide valuable information and assistance to viewers on different aspects of consumer rights, business support, and navigating the marketplace throughout the year. ♦

Date of release: 07 March 2024