… and consumer rights

CANDIDATES were urged to speak up for consumer rights amid the proliferation of tainted products.

The EcoWaste Coalition pointed out that candidates, especially those running for the highest positions, had not disclosed whether they were advocating the protection of consumers against unsafe products.

EcoWaste coordinator Aileen Lucero said World Consumer Rights Day was observed on March 15 but hardly noticed by candidates in the thick of the campaign.

“We expect those running for public elective positions to instigate measures that will advance the eight basic rights of consumers, especially the deprived and the poor,” Lucero said.

“Stronger consumer protection laws will prevent market abuse, ensure fair play and justice, and safeguard public health and the environment,” she added.

One of EcoWaste’s advocacies is informing the public about products tainted with toxic substances that could seriously affect health, especially of children and pregnant women.

Lucero said consumer rights included the right to the satisfaction of basic needs, the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, the right to be heard, the right to redress, the right to consumer education and the right to a healthy environment.

EcoWaste also called on those running for the House of Representatives or the Senate to support amendments to strengthen the Consumer Act of the Philippines and to propose laws to implement the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection.