DTI taps Bicol youth to promote consumer protection

By Sally Atento-Altea

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is engaging students as partners in promoting consumer awareness through a Consumerism Challenge, which is part of the Consumer Welfare Month celebration.

“We’re making use of our students to be our instrument in advocating and helping us educate consumers, specifically about their rights and responsibilities,” said DTI Bicol Regional Director Dindo Nabol.

Nabol stated that the initiative aims to raise awareness among students about consumer rights and responsibilities to share with their communities and families.

The Regional Consumerism Challenge is a quiz competition with three rounds: true or false, multiple choice, and identification. It focuses on the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the Price Act, the No Shortchanging Act of 2016, and other consumer protection laws.

Baao National High School in Camarines Sur secured first place and received a plaque along with a cash prize of P15,000.

“We were educated and empowered as some of the youngest consumers,” said Marion Labrador, a member of the winning team.

Catanduanes State University Laboratory School finished in second place, earning a plaque and a cash prize of P10,000, while Computer Arts and Technological College Inc. took third place, receiving a plaque and P7,000.

All other participating schools were awarded a consolation prize of P3,000 and a certificate.

“I learned the importance of having knowledge about the products we buy for our own safety,” said Shajanny Vibar, a Grade 9 student from Bicol College.

Nabol highlighted the need for youth involvement in consumer protection.

“We encourage consumers to be responsible and vigilant since we can’t monitor all stores 24/7. We need partners to help advocate and educate,” he said.

A total of 18 teams from 18 schools across Bicol’s six provinces took part in the event that was held at Ayala Malls Legazpi. (Raiza Lucido contributed to this report/PIA5/Albay)