'Diskwento Sale' at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol today
A one-day fair offering discounted prices on basic and prime consumer products and medicines is being held at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Grounds, today, July 16, 2009.
Spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry-Iloilo (DTI-Iloilo), the “Diskwento Sale Program” is a non-wage benefit project that intends to improve the access of workers and employees and their families as income extenders to basic and prime commodities at affordable prices.
DTI-Iloilo Director Wilhelm Malones said this is also in line with the government continued provision of assistance to displaced workers, both local and overseas, through its Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program.
Some 18 manufacturers that include 6 over-the counter (OTC) distributors, local Small and Medium Enterprises and farmers assisted by the Department of Agriculture producing fruits and vegetables and other agricultural products have agreed to join in the program.
During the fair, which will start from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., consumers will be given “buyer vouchers” that will allow them to purchase items of up to P1,500.
Malones said this is to discourage wholesale buying and profiteering.
Over the counter medicines will be also available at the fair at discounted or manufacturers’ prices apart from the basic and prime commodities, agricultural/food products and rice.
Some of these medicines are paracetamol, multi-vitamins, carbocisteine, salbutamol, vitamin B complex, loperamide capsule, mefenamic acid, amoxicillin, diclofenal, nifidipine and ascorbic syrup and tablet, amongst others. Also available are surgical gloves and masks and rubbing alcohol.
Malones said participating manufacturers and producers have assured them of the availability of their products during the duration of the fair.
The “Diskwento Sale Program” is in coordination with the DA, National Food Authority, Department of Health, Bureau of Food and Drugs, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine Retailers Association and Integrated Salesmen Association of Panay. (PIA)