By Alma L. Tingcang
PAGADIAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) – Even before the formal opening of the
Department of Trade and Industry’s Balik Eskwela Diskwento Fair today at the DTI
premises, several mothers tagging along their kids flocked to the area early to avail of discounted products
such as notebooks and other school supplies, school uniforms, umbrellas,
grocery products, fruit juices and other items.
Mr. Roger D. Sarsalejo, Chief of the
Business Development Division (BDD), in his welcome remarks said DTI has two big
programs. First is, enabling business and second is, empowering consumers. “Ang
Balik Eskwela Diskwento Fair usa ka paagi nga makatabang sa atong mga
konsumante. Tungod kay nihit ang panudlanan sa matag usa, gihatagan nato sila
ug higayon pinaagi ning maong programa, nga makapalit ug barato nga produkto.”
(Balik Eskwela Diskwento Fair is one way to help consumers. Because everyone
has a limited budget, we are giving them a chance through this program to buy
discounted products.)
He said DTI Provincial Director Ma.
Socorro M. Atay is currently in Zamboanga City for an equally important
undertaking and could not join the 2-day activity.
Sarsalejo urged the public to avail of
the Diskwento Fair which would go a long way in easing the economic burden of
parents with the opening of classes in June.
Ms. Thelma L. Ceniza, OIC of the
Consumer Welfare and Protection Division discussed the mechanics of the
Diskwento fair saying that consumers first have to register with the
secretariat at the entrance. Once registered, they are given purchase forms which
will be signed by sellers as to how much they have bought. Buyers are given P1,500
allowable amount of purchase for the day to give everyone equal opportunity.
Purchase forms should be returned to
the secretariat once you have finished your buying spree. No wholesale is
allowed at the Diskwento Fair but only
retail is encouraged for everybody to avail of the products at discounted prices.
Participating business establishments include
the following: RML Peoples Plaza, Best Emporium, Ginebra San Miguel, CTM School
Uniform and Supplies, Edmar Enterprises, D’ Beam Citimart, Julie’s Bakeshop,
Pagadian Taft Mart, Lacharon T-Shirt and Uniform Outlet, Golden Daughter
Enterprises and Sabren Trading.
The Diskwento Fair will run until
tomorrow, May 25 from 8:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. (ALT-PIA9/Zambo Sur)