Energy and environment conservations, focus of Consumer Welfare Month celebration this October
With the theme"Leading the Consumers toward Efficient Lighting for a Brighter Future", the country once again celebrates Consumer Welfare Month this October. The theme is anchored on the key policy area of the national government to promote energy conservation and environmental concern to mitigate the ill effects of climate change. This year, the National Consumers Affairs Council (NCAC) has passed the torch of chairmanship to the Department of Energy (DOE), citing the department's role as crucial in the implementation and enforcement of the Consumer Act, the EPIRA Law and other energy-related laws which have great impact on consumers.
In line with this, the Department of Trade and Industry in the region is encouraging consumers and all households to shift from the use of T12s or 20W and 40W linear/tubular fluorescent lamps to T8s or 18W and 36W slim type or to other energy efficient lighting system like compact florescent lamps (CFLs). The use of energy efficient lighting system will earn much savings for the family which will be converted into other household stuff like food and fuel.
Other DTI activities lined-up for the occasion are: information dissemination on various fair trade laws, briefings and seminars to various sectoral groups, market visits, enforcement activities, and radio and TV interviews, in the six provinces of the region. One of the unique events is the conduct of the 3rd Consumer Welfare and Product Quality and Safety Standards Expo at Robinsons Place, Iloilo City on October 13-19, 2008. Here, the DTI Iloilo Provincial Office joins hand with the Philippine Product Safety and Quality Foundation Inc. (PPSQFI), the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) -Iloilo Chapter, and Robinsons Place-Iloilo, to showcase the Philippine Standards (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) marked products. These are products that bear the Philippine National Standard (PNS) required markings such as PS mark or ICC stickers. The PS and ICC markings signify that the product passed the tests and inspections by the Bureau of Product Standards and are safe to use. Also to be featured are service providers that are certified, recognized, and accredited by DTI and other government agencies; and local companies with Intellectual Property Office-Philippines (IPO-Phils) registered trademarks. Eighteen (18) manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and dealers will join this exhibit.
An added activity during the fair is a forum on Consumer Welfare and Product Standards. It will be held on October 16, 1:00 - 5:00 o'clock P.M. at the 2nd Floor, Mabini Wing of the Robinson's Place-Iloilo. Owners and representatives of retail establishments and other stakeholders are expected to attend. Registration is free.
DTI activities prepared in the celebration of the Consumer Welfare Month are part of DTI's commitment to protect the welfare and safety of consumers through continued consumer education program. Consumers are advised to be always vigilant as a well informed consumer is the best protected consumer. (RMM/DTI-6)