Raising the Bar: How the DTI Empowers Oro Chamber Members through Standards Compliance

CREDIT: PIA CDO

In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Misamis Oriental takes the front row in catalyzing growth and fostering a culture of excellence. During the Oro Chamber 1st Quarter General Assembly, the DTI unfolded essential insights on standardization and conformity assessment, underscoring the significance of adhering to standards for business prosperity.

Standards may seem like mere documents approved by recognized bodies, yet their role in driving business growth is pivotal. They are not just guidelines but essential tools for ensuring product quality, safety, and competitiveness in the market. 

Standards transition into mandatory regulations when they impact crucial aspects such as life, health, safety, the environment, or local manufacturers. The voluntary nature of standards doesn't diminish their importance; instead, they level the playing field in the business realm. 

A total of 111 products fall under the mandatory certification scheme and are grouped into nine consumer product categories. These range from household appliances to automotive-related products, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the scheme.

The Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) is the National Standards Body in the Philippines, established under Republic Act 4109. Its role is to develop, implement, and promulgate standards for all products in the Philippines, thereby ensuring the manufacturing, production, and distribution of quality products.

Two prominent product certification schemes are the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and Safety Certification Mark and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Certification Scheme. These marks serve as indicators of compliance with standards, enhancing product credibility.

To ensure strict adherence to standards, the DTI Misamis Oriental conducts regular monitoring, market surveillance, enforcement actions, and on-site audits. These measures help maintain a fair and competitive business environment.

Non-compliance has its consequences, as demonstrated by the recent destruction of uncertified products worth over P760,000. These products were seized during surveillance and enforcement operations for lacking mandatory PS mark or ICC sticker.

Compliance isn't merely about avoiding penalties; it's about enhancing the credibility and marketability of products. Entrepreneurs are urged to prioritize obtaining product certifications to increase their products' appeal to consumers.

The Fair Trade Law and standards requirements emphasize the importance of fair business practices. By complying, businesses not only adhere to regulations but also contribute to a healthier and more robust business ecosystem.

In the grand scheme of business growth, standards compliance is a cornerstone. The DTI, through its initiatives, continues to empower Oro Chamber members, promoting the development of businesses while ensuring the protection of consumers. Ensuring adherence to standards is not just a responsibility, but also a pathway to success.

Unveiling Financial Empowerment: The Peso Caravan's Journey to Iligan City

CREDIT: PIA ILIGAN CITY

In an era where financial literacy and accessibility are paramount, Iligan City is set to witness an unprecedented event that promises to redefine the relationship between its residents and their monetary assets. The Peso Caravan, a groundbreaking initiative by the Bank Central ng Philippines (BSP) in collaboration with the Iligan City Bankers Club (ICBC) and Robinsons Iligan, gears up to embark on a mission aimed at offering a comprehensive suite of financial services and enlightenment to the local populace. This blog delves deep into the caravan's offerings, promising a detailed walkthrough of the event slated for April 3-4, 2024, at the Level 1 Atrium, Robinsons Iligan.

At its core, the Peso Caravan is more than just an event; it's a movement towards financial inclusion and education. Iligan City residents are on the brink of an opportunity that not only addresses conventional banking needs but also tackles the oft-overlooked aspect of currency health.

Currency, much like any physical object, wears down over time, leading to classifications such as 'UNFIT' and 'MUTILATED'. Unfit money, characterized by extreme wear, such as twists, erratic prints, or stains, and mutilated money, marred by rips, punctures, animal abrasions, or other forms of damage, are no longer fit for circulation. The Peso Caravan brings forth a unique opportunity for residents to exchange these damaged denominations for new ones, ensuring the robustness of the currency in circulation.

A centerpiece of the caravan is the money exchange service. This is not merely a transaction; it's an educational exchange, enlightening residents about the life cycle of currency and the importance of maintaining its integrity for the health of the national economy.

In a world rapidly transitioning to digital, the inclusion of Account Opening activities by participating financial service providers (FSPs) is a beacon of progress. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between traditional banking and the burgeoning realm of e-wallets, offering residents a gateway to modern financial services.

Moreover, the event transcends mere transactional interactions. It’s an educational conclave where residents are invited to meetings aimed at deepening financial literacy, focusing on topics that are both relevant and transformative.

The synergy between the Bank Central ng Philippines (BSP), Iligan City Bankers Club (ICBC), and Robinsons Iligan is a testament to the collective vision of enhancing financial inclusivity. This partnership is fundamental in ensuring the success of the caravan, pooling resources, knowledge, and reach.

Scheduled from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, the caravan is designed to accommodate attendees at their convenience, ensuring that every visitor has ample opportunity to avail of the services offered. This section would ideally provide logistical details, ensuring a smooth experience for attendees.

For residents keen on participating, a brief preparation guide—detailing necessary documents for account opening, tips on identifying unfit and mutilated money, and other prerequisites—can ensure they derive maximum benefit from the event.

The Peso Caravan is not just a local initiative but a model for financial inclusivity that can potentially be replicated across the nation. This segment explores the potential ripple effects of the caravan's success in Iligan City on broader financial education and inclusion efforts.

As the days inch closer to this landmark event, the call to action becomes louder for Iligan City residents. It’s not just an invitation to exchange unfit or damaged currency but a broader appeal to step into the realm of informed financial decision-making.

The Peso Caravan in Iligan City stands as a beacon of financial empowerment and education. Through its comprehensive approach to tackling both tangible and intellectual aspects of banking and currency management, the event promises to be a cornerstone in the city's journey towards greater financial enlightenment and inclusion. Residents are encouraged to seize this opportunity, marking the dates on their calendar as the beginning of a new chapter in their financial narrative.

By engendering a culture of financial literacy and inclusivity, the Peso Caravan is not just a temporary event but a stepping stone towards a future where every citizen is empowered to make informed financial decisions, marking a significant milestone in the economic development of Iligan City and setting a precedent for future initiatives.

SCHEDULE:

April 3-4, 2024 at Level 1 Atrium, Robinsons Iligan, Iligan City, from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

Championing Environmental Preservation: How SPI Earned Acclaim from Tagoloan River Basin Council

CREDIT: STEAG State Power Inc

A ripple of applause echoed in the Mindanao Power Plant as the Tagoloan River Basin Management Council (TRBMC) commended SPI for their exceptional contributions towards environmental preservation. This acknowledgment came during an enlightening tour, a part of the council's ongoing efforts to learn from stakeholders' best practices in social and environmental management.

SPI's commitment to the environment and social initiatives didn't go unnoticed. After all, the company's notable environmental protection programs and projects have been instrumental in shaping the future of many host communities in Misamis Oriental.

Spearheaded by Bishop Noel Pedregosa of the Diocese of Malaybalay, Bukidnon, TRBMC plays a crucial role in overseeing the expansive river basin. Covering a multitude of communities in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental provinces, the council's mission is to protect and sustain the ecosystem of the Tagoloan River basin.

Spanning 1,704 square kilometers and including 94 barangays, the Tagoloan River basin is among the country's primary river basins. Its significance extends beyond geographical measures, contributing immensely to the biodiversity and ecological balance within the region.

SPI's remarkable work in the environmental sector and their commitment to the development of host communities in Misamis Oriental is praiseworthy. The company has paved the way for innovative environmental protection programs and projects, making a significant impact on the regional environmental landscape.

During the tour of the power plant, Tagoloan Municipal Environment and Natural Resources (MENRO) Officer Jeffrey Elogsong expressed his gratitude towards SPI. He highlighted the company's significant contributions and underscored their unwavering support in developing host communities and initiating environmental protection programs.

SPI's passion for environmental conservation is reflected in their numerous initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing the natural resources within their operational areas. The company's environmental protection programs have played a pivotal role in improving the quality of life for the local communities.

The acknowledgment from TRBMC is a testament to the power of collaboration between stakeholders dedicated to environmental conservation. It is a classic example of how corporate entities like SPI can contribute significantly to ecological preservation and community development.

The recognition from TRBMC serves as a beacon of encouragement for SPI to continue their environmental protection efforts. It is a call for the company to keep innovating and introducing new programs and projects that foster environmental sustainability.

SPI's acknowledgment from TRBMC sends a strong message to other corporations about the importance of environmental stewardship. It encourages them to follow in SPI's footsteps and make a positive impact on their communities and the environment.

SPI's recognition from the Tagoloan River Basin Management Council is a testament to the company's dedication to social and environmental conservation initiatives. It not only acknowledges their efforts but also shines a light on the critical role that corporate entities can play in environmental preservation. The applause that echoed in the Mindanao Power Plant that day was a round of appreciation that will continue to inspire SPI and many others in the journey towards environmental sustainability.