Agencies collaborate to enhance productivity and consumer rights in Iloilo City

The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB), together with the Department of Trade and Industry VI (DTI) and the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Board VI (RCMB), hosted on February 21, 2024 a pivotal Productivity-based Incentives Scheme Learning Session at Smallville21 Hotel.

The event aimed to bolster consumer welfare, elevate productivity, and disseminate critical information on consumer rights and protection to representatives from 22 local businesses.

The session fostered in-depth discussions on a variety of critical subjects integral to both the commercial sector and consumers. Topics ranged from the establishment of Labor Management Committees and Conflict Management to implementing Productivity-Based Incentive Schemes.

Also on the agenda were strategies for handling consumer complaints and a review of relevant legislation, including the Consumer Act (RA 7394), Price Act (RA 7581), Price Tag Law (RA 71), Product Standards Law (RA 4109), No Shortchanging Act (RA 10909), and the Vape Law (RA 11900).

Grace Benedicto, Chief of the DTI Region VI Consumer Protection Division, highlighted the necessity for consumer vigilance in safeguarding their rights and for businesses to adhere to Fair Trade Laws and uphold ethical standards.

“It is paramount for consumers to actively assert their rights to guard against unfair trade practices, and businesses must comply with fair trade laws and observe ethical standards,” Benedicto said.

The gathering was more than an educational forum; it also provided a valuable opportunity for networking among the participating businesses.

The collaborative effort underscores a commitment to continuous improvement in the realms of consumer rights and business productivity. These initiatives are essential in driving economic growth and ensuring a thriving, sustainable business climate in the region.