TACLOBAN CITY – The City Government of Tacloban under Mayor Cristina G. Romualdez has partnered with the provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to help consumers augment their budgets in  time for the upcoming opening of classes in June.

On Wednesday, May 24, a three-day Diskwento Caravan was launched at Plaza Rizal to offer products at discounted prices and educate consumers of their rights and responsibilities .

City Administrator Atty. Irene Chiu represented Mayor Romualdez during the launching and underscored the importance of the initiative for consumers who are on a tight budget.

According to the DTI Provincial  Consumer Welfare Division Chief Araceli Larraga there are 5 participating wholesalers and retailers of schools supplies, and 12 distributors of prime commodities for the Summer Edition of the Diskwento Caravan.

She added that this regular program of DTI which aims to provide relief to workers by way of helping them cope with rising prices of basic commodities and services through non-wage benefits, is usually held every May and November.

The Balik Eskwela Edition of the Diskwento Caravan include traders of School Supplies, school shoes bags and uniforms, as well distributors of prime commodities such as dairy products, canned goods and other food items.

Local food producers being supported by the City Government are also taking part in the Caravan; while the Cristina’s Learn and Earn Program (CLEP) is offering free haircut and massage during the event.

Consumers can avail of up to 10 to 30 percent discount depending on the item, throughout the duration of the Caravan which will run until Friday, May 26.  It is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 in the afternoon. -HENRY JAMES G. ROCA/CIO