E – consumer protection is everybody’s responsibility

AS the government through the Department of Information and Communication Technology is working hard towards a cyber safe and resilient Philippines, it is equally important that every Filipino and sector of society will also do their role in ensuring e – consumer protection.

The Department of Trade and Industry and DICT stressed this during the opening program for the October celebration of Consumer Welfare Month at New Town Plaza Hotel here on Tuesday.

Undersecretary Theodoro Pascua of the DTI Consumer Protection Group pointed out that with the advent of technology e – commerce or online transactions has given consumers the convenience of saving time and effort in buying or paying their bills, however, it is important for consumers to be empowered and responsible.

Assistant Secretary Allan Cabanlong of DICT Cybersecurity and Enabling Technology, in the same forum, informed that along with the fast moving information and communication technology, cyber threats are also getting more advanced and destructive which is why e – consumers must be educated and empowered with cyber security.

Cabanlong said the DICT is moving fast in working for a cyber safe and resilient Philippines as he urged the public to be responsible consumers and be partners in ensuring cyber security.

In line with this year’s CWM celebration theme, “Consumer Rights in the Digital Age”, a forum was also held in the afternoon and attended by around 200 participants representing Consumernet member agencies, higher educational institutions and the business sector.

For the forum, Cabanlong presented the National Cybersecurity Plan 2022 and other DICT programs and advocacies. DICT Planning Officer III Christine Apple Buenaobra– Pre discussed how consumers can protect themselves in cyberspace.

Lawyer Lilibeth Cosi of the National Telecommunications Commission explained text scams and spams as well as the procedures in filing complaint.

Paul Lucba of PLDT also gave some tips on cyber security while Smart Communications External Affairs head Jose Rosete gave a presentation on how one can become a smart and responsible e – consumer.