City of San Fernando, Pampanga — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 3 successfully convened the Regional Local Price Coordinating Councils (LPCCs) and Consumer Organizations’ Summit with the theme “One Region, One Action: Unity in Consumer Protection.”
The summit brought together LPCCs, local government representatives, consumer organizations, and partner stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in safeguarding consumer welfare and ensuring price stability across Central Luzon.
The event featured learning sessions including the composition and functions of the LPCCs, price and supply analysis and price control strategies during emergencies, price index monitoring, the Philippine Competition Act, and best practices of select LPCCs and LGUs. These sessions provided participants with practical tools and shared experiences to guide effective price monitoring and consumer protection at the local level.
Atty. Merriel G. Aviles of the Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) presented the composition and functions of the LPCCs. This was followed by Ms. Marielle Ann Villegas, also from CPAB, who discussed Price and Supply Analysis and Price Control Strategies during emergencies.
The attendees were reminded of the crucial role of timely coordination among government agencies and stakeholders in preventing unreasonable price increases and ensuring consumer protection, particularly in times of crisis.
Ms. Arlene Torrico from the Philippine Statistics Authority provided insights on Price Index, highlighting its importance as a tool in measuring changes in the cost of goods and services and guiding evidence-based policy decisions.
Atty. Maria Graciella Dela Paz-Malapit of the Department of Justice tackled the Philippine Competition Act emphasizing the law’s role in promoting fair market competition, preventing monopolies, and protecting consumers from anti-competitive practices.
Meanwhile, DTI Nueva Ecija shared their best practices in price monitoring, and the Provincial Government of Bataan highlighted their innovative Provincial Online Price Monitoring System.
In her message, DTI Region 3 Director Edna D. Dizon emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in consumer protection. “Our duty is to ensure price stability and protect consumers, especially during times of crisis. By strengthening our LPCCs and fostering partnerships, we empower our communities to build a fair and resilient marketplace,” she said.
The Regional LPCC Summit reaffirmed DTI-3’s commitment to working closely with local governments, consumer organizations, and other stakeholders to safeguard consumer rights and promote stability in the region’s markets.
