DTI seeks to recharge Bohol's economy

CEBU, Philippines - While the earthquake victims in the province of Bohol have continuously received goods from all over the world, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-7) is shifting from relief mode to buying mode to perk up the economy.

DTI-7 regional director Asteria Caberte said that the purchasing power of Boholanos have improved after the earthquake, however, there are no open stores to supply the demand for basic commodities.

"People are queuing in remittance centers, meaning they have the purchasing power. But there is no supply of goods, and this might trigger tremendous increase in prices," said Caberte in an interview with The Freeman yesterday.

Through the DTI's Diskwento Caravan, the regional trade and industry chief hopes that the economy in Bohol will slowly perk up, opening up the availability of goods to people.

"DTI is mounting Diskwento Caravan in worst-hit areas in Bohol. We were in Maribojoc. We're also done with Antequera and Loon," she said.

Today (October 31), the caravan is scheduled to be in Tubigon, Caberte said.

While the Department of Tourism (DOT) is also doing its role in recovering the main economic driver of the province-tourism, DTI is also trying to rebuild the economic vibrancy of the island province.

DTI, through the Bureau of Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection (BTRCP), has invited manufacturers and retailers of basic necessities and prime commodities to join the activity.

Products being offered at  the caravan include canned goods, laundry soaps, bath soaps, shampoos, coffee, creamers, milk, noodles, rice, biscuits, eggs, dressed chicken and cleansing agents.

The Alturas Group of Companies, Bohol Quality Corporation and AH Shoppers' Mart are some of the participating retailers while the National Food Authority (NFA) will be also there to sell NFA rice to consumers.

"It is important for the DTI to conduct Diskwento Caravan in Bohol in view of the calamity that hit the province. The Department ensures that their local consumers will have access to essential goods in the midst of the crisis they are facing," said DTI-Consumer welfare and business regulation group (CWBRG) officer-in-charge and BTRCP director Victorio A. Dimagiba.

"Local suppliers in Region VII are very supportive of DTI's initiatives. They assured us that they will join in the conduct of Diskwento Caravan in Bohol," Caberte added.

The Diskwento Caravan is a project of the DTI where basic necessities and prime commodities are sold at discounted prices. The project upholds the right of consumers, especially those belonging to marginalized communities, to have access to basic goods. /JMD (FREEMAN)