The National Consumer Affairs Council has warned major retailers, local government units and other concerned consumer groups in Negros Oriental to be more vigilant about deceptive and unfair sales practices.

The Council, in coordination with local Consumer Advocates Inc. and the Department of Trade and Industry, conducted a consumer empowerment campaign last week to provide information on consumer welfare protection, as well as effective linkages in information network system. CAI president Deo Salem said the activity is needed to enlighten consumers on their rights and responsibilities. Salem said people should not always be dependent on government agencies, and should seek redress on grievances directly against any fraudulent seller or supplier of products and services.

He said, however, that going to the right agency speeds up the process and helps resolve issues effectively.

Problems relating to manufactured product quality and safety, warranties, service and repair shops must be referred to the Department of Trade and Industry. For complaints on processed food and drugs, consumers may call the Department of Health's Bureau of Food and Drugs, Salem said. For false weights and measures, as well as food in restaurants and eateries, complaints may be lodged with the city or municipal health office; non-issuance of receipts, Bureau of Internal Revenue; on telephone rates, cellular phones, TV and radio, to the National Telecommunications Commission, and other government agencies responsible of specific products and services.

Meanwhile, food and drug regulation officer, Therese Antoniette Cuyos of BFAD Region 7, cautioned the public on the proliferation of counterfeit drugs. She said some medicines and drugs do not contain the desired dose, while others are illegally manufactured as can be noticed in the label.

Fake drugs can be detected by its container and label without authorization trademark that is registered with the Bureau of Patent.

Anyone possessing unregistered products may be criminally liable, Cuyos added.* RG

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