DTI asked to probe lechon "scandal"

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Councilors Margarita “Margot” Osmeña and Alvin Dizon want the Department of Trade and Industry to investigate the alleged malicious practice of some lechon dealers in shaving off a portion of meat from lechons they sell.

The move of the two legislators came after a university professor accused some lechon dealers of cheating their customers by shaving off meat.

“It is common knowledge for many Cebuanos that more often than not customers fall victim to the practice of scheming lechon vendors by slicing or lopping off a considerable portion of the whole lechon meat underneath the crunchy skin, the so-called “linaplapan nga lechon” in Cebuano, the proposed draft resolution of Dizon and Osmeña read.

Dizon and Osmeña said the practice is a clear violation of Republic Act 7394 otherwise known as the Consumer Protection Act of the Philippines. They are also concerned that it might create a bad impression on domestic and foreign tourists.

“This dishonest practice of certain lechon dealers or vendors, is not only illegal but also tends to put in a bad light, not only Cebu’s lechon but the image of Cebu as a province and as a city as well,” they said.

The 37 members of the Cebu City Lechon Dealers Association already denied the allegations and called the accusation unfair.

Rico Dionson, president of the organization, said they are willing to appear before the city council if called to shed light on the allegations. — /BRP (FREEMAN)