Business community backs DTI's certification program

The certified establishment program recently introduced by the Department of Trade and Industry, aimed at providing total customer protection, has gained support from the business community.

The provincial and regional offices of DTI in Cebu and Central Visayas has launched the DTI-CE in Cebu and inked deal with trade organizations to support the initiative.

The DTI-CE gives due recognition to establishments that uphold the rights of consumers and practice responsible business, where consumers indeed get value from their money. The program also encourages the setting up of a sustainable Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD) or a DTI-recognized customer service counter that will provide information to consumers and serve as a mechanism for speedy resolution of consumer complaints.

During the Cebu launching held at the Cebu City Marriott Hotel, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) urged retail and services establishments in Cebu to get certification from this program, to achieve a healthy market environment for Cebu.

The program has gained support not only from CCCI, but with other trade organizations here as well, such as Hardware Consolidated Inc., Philippine Electrical Suppliers Inc., Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Philippine Retailers Association-Cebu chapter.

DTI undersecretary Zenaida C. Maglaya who graced the event, said her agency targets to register at least 1,000 retail establishments nationwide this year.

She said that this program is going to be institutionalized by the government for long term, and not only for the consumer month this October.

"This will be an ongoing thing. Let us continuously uphold consumer rights and protection," she said.

The Cebu implementation in close coordination with the trade organizations, which formally signed their commitment of support will be led by DTI-7 regional director Asteria Caberte, and DTI-Cebu provincial office director Nelia F. Navarro.

The DTI-CE aims to promote and foster the highest level of business ethics and uphold fair and honest marketplace through voluntary self-regulation service excellence.

All retail establishments are encouraged to join the DTI-CE program, such as supermarkets, department stores, appliance centers, hardware stores including DTI-accredited service and repair shops.

In Metro Manila, the program has gained commitment from Philippine Association of Supermarkets Inc., Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Federation of Chinese Chambers and Industry, Philippine Retailers Association, and National Association of Consumers Inc.