CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3) culminated its Consumer Welfare Month celebration on October 27, 2026 at SM City Pampanga, highlighting the role of informed consumers in building a safer and fairer marketplace.
With the theme “Safe Products, Confident Consumers,” the event gathered consumer advocates, students, and stakeholders to promote consumer protection and product safety.
DTI-3 Regional Director Edna D. Dizon said consumer awareness is key to public protection.
“A confident consumer is an informed consumer, someone who knows their rights, understands their responsibilities, and knows how to recognize safe and quality products,” Dizon said.
Keynote speaker Engr. Jay Illescas of the Bureau of Philippine Standards stressed the importance of product standards in ensuring safety and quality of goods in the market.
The celebration also recognized partners in consumer advocacy. The Bulacan Consumer Affairs Council (BCAC), led by its president Jose Sosa, was recognized as a National Consumer Organization in 2025.
Students showcased their creativity in the Audio-Visual Competition on Consumer Awareness and Advocacy. Tarlac Montessori School, Inc. won first place.
In the Search for 2026 Central Luzon Consumer Advocate, Maricar V. Valiente of Bataan was named Ms. Central Luzon Consumer Advocate 2026. She also won Darling of the Crowd and Best in Eco Fashion Design. Rowena T. Arconado of Zambales was first runner-up, while Geraldine G. David of Tarlac was second runner-up and Best in Consumer Insight & Wisdom awardee.
DTI-3 said consumer protection is a shared responsibility of government, businesses, and informed consumers, and urged the public to remain vigilant and report concerns through proper channels.
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