It would not be long until a proposed bill that aims to grant broader protection on the rights of consumer is passed into a law now that it has been approved in the committee level at the House of Representatives.
The approved bill specifically mentions 8 different rights a consumer have. These rights were taken from the House Bills No. 4433 and 5072 of Valenzuela City Congressman Win Gatchalian along with 10 other proposed measures.
But then again, what are these consumer rights that Gatchalian and other lawmakers are fighting to protect?
Let’s name it one by one:
- Right to Basic Needs
It means that you shall have right of access to food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, and sanitation in accordance with your economic status.
- Right to Choose
You should have the access to a variety of options, including products and services at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality.
- Right to Representation
You are entitled to express your interest as a consumer such as making remarks on prices and economy. You also have the right to be involved in the making and execution of government policies.
- Right to Redress
You shall have access to appropriate remedies, i.e. warranties or any legal actions, in case of misrepresentation, purchase of substandard or defective product or availing of unsatisfactory services.
- Right to Consumer Education
You must have an access to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make a purchase or any other decision as a consumer.
- Right to Safety
You shall be entitled to protection against marketing of goods or provision of services that are hazardous to health and life.
- Right to Healthy Environment
You shall have access to live and work in an environment, which promotes life of dignity and well-being, and is neither threatening nor dangerous.
- Right to Information
You shall have access to protection against dishonest or misleading advertising or labeling. You also have the right to get facts and information before making an informed consumer choice.
