BUTUAN CITY — Government agencies across Caraga gathered for the September 2026 ConsumerNet Caraga meeting on September 1 at the Go Hotels Function Hall of Robinsons Butuan, reinforcing their shared efforts to promote consumer protection, public safety, and informed decision-making. The meeting was convened by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga and brought together ConsumerNet member agencies to address emerging consumer concerns and discuss strategies for building a more informed, empowered, and protected public. In her welcome remarks, DTI Caraga Regional Director Gay Tidalgo, CESO III, stressed the importance of keeping member agencies coordinated and responsive to changing consumer needs and challenges.
Helping Consumers Understand Their Money
Financial awareness was among the key topics discussed during the meeting through the session “Know Your Money,” led by Regie G. Lopez, Currency Operations Specialist of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Butuan. The session provided participants with practical information on identifying counterfeit money, recognizing currency integrity features, and handling Philippine currency responsibly. The discussion supports the BSP's continuing efforts to improve public awareness about the proper use and care of money while strengthening confidence and trust in the financial system.
Protecting Consumers From Online Threats
As more consumers turn to digital platforms for purchases and financial transactions, cybersecurity was another major focus of the gathering. Pat. Elmer G. Bañas of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 13 discussed the “Cyber Consumer Protection Initiatives of the PNP Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) 13.” The session covered measures and initiatives aimed at protecting the public from online fraud, cyber-related threats, and other forms of digital crime. The discussion highlighted the importance of consumer vigilance as digital transactions continue to become part of everyday life. Meanwhile, Atty. Junjie B. Crisante, Chief of the DTI Caraga Consumer Protection Division (CPD), presented the directions for Consumer Welfare Month (CWM) 2026, providing an overview of preparations for the region's annual observance in October.
Building Stronger Cooperation for Consumer Welfare
DTI Caraga Assistant Regional Director Brenda B. Corvera, CESO IV, concluded the meeting by underscoring the need for continued coordination, cooperation, and information sharing among ConsumerNet member agencies. She encouraged agencies to remain actively involved in consumer welfare programs and upcoming Consumer Welfare Month activities. The meeting demonstrated the collective commitment of government institutions to address consumer concerns, promote fair business practices, and protect the public from unethical or harmful transactions. Through stronger inter-agency cooperation and continued public education, ConsumerNet Caraga aims to help create a consumer community that is better informed, more vigilant, and better equipped to protect its rights.
