• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Landers Bacolod Membership Area at Megaworld’s The Upper East has been certified as Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD), the Department of Trade and Industry in Negros Occidental said.
This is the very first certification from among all Landers stores membership areas nationwide, the DTI Negros Occidental Provincial Office said in a post Oct. 26. “This milestone marks a strategic partnership between the DTI and Landers, dedicated to prioritizing consumer welfare and ensuring a fair, transparent shopping experience for everyone.”
Engiemar Tupas, DTI NegOcc chief trade-industry development specialist, handed over the certification to Landers Membership manager Ma. Theresa Gargalicano-Tad-y, in the presence of the superstores’ executives, including vice president for Membership and Marketing Kenneth Charles Ocampo, general manager Ferdinand Vinluan, and senior membership manager Francis Jacela, as well as DTI employees.
“This project further enhances The Landers Experience, providing an added layer of support and protection for all members. It reflects Landers’ commitment to ensuring that ‘Where Membership Means More’ truly prioritizes consumer care,” the DTI said.
Tupas told the Negros NOW Daily last night that 64 establishments in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental are CWD-certified.
These include the Supervalue Inc. of SM City Bacolod Supermarket, Metro Retail Stores Group Inc. at Ayala Capitol, Robinsons Supermarket Corporation in Mandalagan, and Puregold stores, among others.
An establishment that is CWD-certified means that consumer welfare is promoted, there is self-policing mechanism, and responsible entrepreneurship, the DTI said.
A CWD establishes procedures to systematically and appropriately address consumer complaints, and provides easier access to government programs, new laws and policies, and will serve as a multiplier for the government in providing services, such as queries, and complaints resolution without going through tedious litigation process, the DTI added.
October is Consumer Welfare Month, as the DTI seeks to strengthen consumer empowerment and informed decisions.
This year’s theme, “Be Smart, Assert Your Consumer Rights”, focuses on proactive steps in protecting our rights as consumers, the DTI said. “Stay informed. Make smart choices. Be a wise and empowered consumer!” | CGC
