The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported that nationwide awareness of consumer rights has significantly increased as the government continues to prioritize consumer protection.

In a statement Sunday, the DTI said awareness of consumer rights rose to 85 percent as of September 2025, up from 78 percent in June, crediting both public and private sector partners for their efforts.

This came amid a rise in consumer concerns, with the DTI recording more than 13,000 complaints related to online transactions from January to August 2025.

DTI Fair Trade Group Assistant Secretary and Supervising Head Regino Mallari Jr. expressed appreciation to industry partners during the recent Stakeholders’ Appreciation Night for their continued compliance and cooperation.

The DTI said more than 13,000 retailers have received the DTI Bagwis Seal of Excellence for responsible and consumer-friendly business practices.

Meanwhile, Amway Philippines LLC was conferred the Seal of Legitimacy for ethical direct selling.

The DTI also cited manufacturers of basic goods, school supplies, and noche buena products—including members of the Canned Sardines Association of the Philippines, PhilBaking, and the Philippine Association of Meat Processors and Importers—for helping stabilize prices.

Advocacy partners such as the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Light Rail Transit Authority, Metro Rail Transit Authority–Line 3, Robinsons, the University of the Philippines Los Baños, and Manuel L. Quezon University Law School were likewise commended for promoting consumer education and policy development.

Local governments including Makati, Pasay, Parañaque, Pasig, Valenzuela, Muntinlupa, Quezon City, San Juan, and Marikina were also recognized for leading community-based awareness campaigns during Consumer Welfare Month.

As part of Consumer Welfare Month, the event reaffirmed the DTI’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to Filipino families and businesses.