THE Department of Trade and Industry in Davao Region (DTI-Davao) encouraged micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to integrate sustainability in sourcing raw materials and promote zero waste in their productions.
DTI-Davao Consumer Protection Division chief Deolly Roque said business establishments must also consider recycling, reusing, and reducing waste in their manufacturing processes if possible.
“Our MSMEs right now are into using eco-friendly packaging,” she said.
Meanwhile, in line with this year’s Consumer Welfare Month theme, “Sustainable Consumption: Understanding the Impact of Consumer’s Choice in a Shared Environment”, the agency will intensify its campaign for a green economy.
“I am encouraging everyone, the consumers to help in eliminating plastics. As much as possible we will not use disposable utensils. It is our responsibility to look into yung ginagamit natin, yung practice natin, yung lifestyle natin,” she added.
Consumer Welfare Month
Another activity in line with the Consumer Welfare Month is the Bagwis Award.
DTI-Davao will be recognizing business establishments who have upheld the consumer’s rights and responsibilities on October 18 during the Regional Consumers Congress.
Sixteen business establishments will be given the Bagwis Awards. Three businesses, all came from Davao del Norte will be given Gold seals. Eight businesses will receive silver and five businesses will be given with Bronze.
“The basic requirement for the Bagwis Award is a consumer welfare desk, full compliance to the fair trade laws such as recognizing the consumer rights and responsibilities, the imposition of discounts for senior citizens, the compliance to price tag law, among others,” Roque said.
The Silver awards are accorded to businesses that have corporate social responsibilities (CSR) programs in addition to the initial requirements. To qualify for the Gold category, the businesses must have the initial requirements, CSR programs, and quality management system or ISO Certification.
Last year, there were a total of 16 gold awardees, 11 silver awardees, and 19 for bronze.