SEVERAL business establishments in Cebu have been recognized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bagwis Awards for prioritizing consumer rights and adhering to fair trade laws.

Eva Du, assistant vice president for Visayas at SM Supermarket, said good service is key to gaining consumer trust and loyalty.

Du said key to boosting consumer relations is understanding consumers’ changing needs, demands and expectations.

The Bagwis recognition, she said, should encourage other business establishments to put focus on satisfying the needs of their customers.

She noted that having a consumer welfare desk is important for organizations to be recognized as consumer friendly, as well as imposing reasonable prices.

“The Bagwis award symbolizes commitment to nurture, guide and protect both consumers and establishments from unfair trade practices,” she said.

SM Supermarket was among the 26 companies that were given Bagwis awards by the DTI Cebu on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019.

DTI Cebu Provincial Director Esperanza Melgar said at least six establishments were already recognized early this year.

She said the program encourages the setting up of consumer welfare desks inside business establishments to serve as mechanism for the speedy resolution of customer complaints.

The program specifically recognizes businesses that uphold the rights of consumers while practicing responsible business where consumers get the best value for money.

Among the retail establishments that are eligible to be awarded with Bagwis include supermarkets, department stores and specialty stores, appliance centers, hardware stores and DTI accredited service and repair shops.

Recognized establishments are urged to continue to do good practices to ensure safe and quality products and services to their consumers and even level up.

Category

“Bagwis” is a local term for wing. The “Bagwis Award” has three categories—gold, silver and bronze.

Establishments with the bronze seal have complied with fair trade laws, namely Consumer Act, Price Act, Price Tag and effective customer relations services and efficient store management operations.

Establishments with the silver seal, on the other hand, have passed additional criteria, such as exemplification of social commitment and responsibility, for instance, involvement in any regular corporate social responsibility programs.

Companies with the gold seal have passed an additional criterion, which is the establishment of quality orientation management.