DTI rolls out discounted sales of school supplies

TACLOBAN CITY, May 26 -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has been conducting discounted sales of schools supplies in Eastern Visayas region, offering buyers more choices of basic school needs at lower prices.

The DTI announced on Friday that "Diskwento Caravan" back-to-school edition has been rolled out in the region’s six provinces since May 11 and will run until June 2.

“Since 2009, the DTI has been holding this regular program wherein manufacturers and retailers are brought together to provide opportunity for consumers to access basic goods, schools supplies and prime commodities at discounted or reduced prices,” said DTI Regional Director Cynthia Nierras in a mobile phone interview.

The trade department held caravans in the following locations: Laoang, Northern Samar (May 17-18); Maasin City, Southern Leyte (May 18); Tacloban City (May 24-26); Catbalogan City, Samar (May 23), Calbayog City, Samar (May 24); Naval, Biliran (May 24-25).

Upcoming caravans are in Guiuan, Eastern Samar (May 29-30) and Borongan City, Eastern Samar (June 1-2)

Products available during these activities are food items, school supplies, uniforms, shoes and other merchandise to help prepare students for the school year.

“This 'Diskwento Caravan' provides consumers access to discounted prime and basic commodities. This is good news for parents who have very limited budget to prepare for the new school year,” Nierras said.

The back-to-school edition of government-sponsored discounted selling has drawn participation of several wholesale and retail school supplies stores.

During the activity, participating companies offer school supplies, bags, and uniforms at 10 percent to 50 percent discounted prices.
(Sarwell Q. Meniano/PNA)