The Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) hosted a Consumer Forum in Cotabato City on October 3, 2024, as part of the 2024 Consumer Welfare Month. Themed “Stronger Together: Elevating Consumer Awareness for a Resilient Future,” the event brought together consumer groups, entrepreneurs, and students to discuss key issues in consumer protection and awareness.
MTIT officials, including Bureau of Trade and Industry Director Hussein Biruar and Maguindanao Provincial Director Romeo Diocolano, emphasized the significance of consumer rights, particularly for the youth. The morning sessions covered key topics such as repair shop accreditation, the handling of consumer complaints, and enforcement measures, with insights from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau.
In the afternoon, students participated in discussions on the vape law, consumer rights, disaster preparedness, and the use of digital payments. Presentations from experts, including those from BARMM READi and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, focused on safety and responsibility in both digital and physical environments.
MTIT’s Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection Division expressed pride in the forum’s success, calling it an important step toward fostering a more informed and resilient Bangsamoro community.
