Baguio city: The Department of Trade and Industry-Cordillera Administrative Region (DTI-CAR) on Tuesday said it is looking to bring its discount caravans to municipalities to give more consumers access to cheaper basic goods and prime commodities.
According to Philippines News Agency, DTI-CAR Assistant Director Samuel Gallardo mentioned that they hold two regular Diskwento Caravan activities each year, coinciding with the school opening and the Christmas season. However, they are awaiting directives from the central office for the possibility of conducting more events. These caravans offer items at a five to 10 percent discount, which Gallardo emphasized as beneficial to consumers by not only making goods more accessible but also more affordable.
DTI-CAR's records indicate that in 2025, there were 44 Diskwento Caravan events held across various municipalities, resulting in PHP13.8 million in sales and benefiting 17,036 consumers. Gallardo explained that the initiative is a collaboration between DTI and manufacturers and distributors to ensure that consumers have access to reasonably priced, quality products. Food products, in particular, are offered at prices below the suggested retail values, with some sold in bulk to provide additional savings.
On Monday, DTI-CAR Director Raymond Panhon highlighted the agency's ongoing efforts to establish partnerships with suppliers and distributors to enhance access to products at optimal prices. He also noted that the agency is intensifying its monitoring of fuel and commodity supplies to combat profiteering, hoarding, and other unfair trade practices.
