SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is encouraging local government units (LGUs) to sustain the “Operation Timbangan” in public markets to monitor compliance of store owners to the law on weight and measures.
Trade and Industry Development specialist Glen Fernando of DTI Antique in an interview said that LGUs with their respective Office of the Municipal Treasurer have the vital role in ensuring that store owners have calibrated their weighing scales and are using them properly.
DTI recently conducted a market monitoring and “Operation Timbangan” in the public market of Belison to check the accuracy of weighing scales and monitor compliance of stores to Fair Trade Laws.
“By doing the on-the-spot monitoring, we are ensuring the protection of consumers against deceptive and unfair sales practices,” said Fernando.
“Operation Timbagan” in Belison has checked 94 weighing scales wherein four were found defective, thus, the units are confiscated by the office of the Municipal Treasurer for calibration.
As to monitoring of Fair Trade Laws, all the 30 retail stores visited are found compliant to price tag, labeling, standards and business name laws.
DTI enjoined all LGUs and consumer groups to be vigilant and continue the on-the-spot market visit and checking of weighing scales so the retailers/store owners adhere to the provisions of the law.
Fernando said the Timbangan ng Bayan provided by DTI installed in all public markets in the province are also operational to allow consumers to check on the accuracy of the weight of the goods they purchase.
The market monitoring in different towns is also in partnership with Negosyo Centers in the area. (PIA/PN)
