DAVAO CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry in Davao Region (DTI-11) is urging consumers to be “smart and mindful” when purchasing Christmas lights and Noche Buena products as the holiday season approaches.
DTI-11 Regional Director Romeo Castañaga said Thursday the department approved a 2024 Noche Buena price guide, released on Nov. 15, to help consumers plan their holiday shopping. The guide includes 236 stock-keeping units from 20 manufacturers across 12 product categories, such as ham, queso de bola, fruit cocktail, cheese and pasta.
“The DTI approved the price guide for these seasonal products, as they are deemed essential and staple during Christmas gatherings and New Year festivities. Price monitoring of these products will start immediately, alongside the monitoring of basic and prime commodities,” Castañaga said in a statement.
He acknowledged a slight increase in prices for some Noche Buena items but assured the public that the DTI Consumer Policy and Advocacy Bureau thoroughly reviewed price adjustment proposals submitted by manufacturers.
Castañaga reminded consumers to prioritize safety when shopping, particularly for Christmas lights by checking for mandatory markings, such as the Philippine Standard Quality and Safety Mark or the Import Commodity Clearance Sticker, to ensure products meet safety standards.
“Do not compromise your family’s safety by spending less and saving a little extra amount. Prioritize your family’s safety when shopping,” he said.
DTI encourages consumers to exercise their right to make informed choices while being responsible and critically aware of product price and quality to ensure value-for-money purchases.
The price guide for Noche Buena items is part of DTI’s annual effort to balance consumer protection and fair trade practices during the holiday season. (PNA)