CEBU CITY – Demonstrating a commitment to ethical business practices and consumer welfare, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cebu Provincial Office honored thirty-one (31) exceptional retail establishments with the prestigious Gold Bagwis Seal of Excellence for the 2024 Awardees in a formal awarding ceremony held on June 18, 2025, at the Golden Prince Hotel and Suites.

A group of people is standing on a stage, holding certificates and medals. The background features a large screen displaying the word "Congratulations!" in white text on a blue background with decorative elements. The Philippine flag is visible on the left side of the image, and there are curtains framing the stage. The logo of DTI Region 7 is displayed in the top right corner.

The event brought together industry leaders, representatives from local chambers of commerce, awardees, and associations in celebration of businesses that uphold the principles of responsible retailing and consumer protection.

According to OIC-Provincial Director Marivic V. Aguilar of DTI Cebu Provincial Office, the Bagwis Seal of Excellence is the highest recognition under DTI’s Bagwis Program. It is awarded to retail establishments that promote and foster the highest level of business ethics and upholding the rights of consumers by adopting responsible business ethics. It is given to recognize establishments that uphold the rights of consumers and practice responsible business where consumers indeed get best value for money. to retail establishments that consistently excel in consumer relations, comply with trade and consumer laws, demonstrate quality store management, and uphold corporate social responsibility and after-sales service. With the 2024 awardees, Cebu now boasts ninety-eight (98) active Gold Bagwis Seal holders.

Awardees stand on stage holding certificates and gold-colored "GOLD BAGWIS" signs during the DTI Cebu Gold Bagwis Seal of Excellence awarding ceremony held at Golden Prince Hotel and Suites on June 18, 2025, recognizing outstanding retailers for ethical business practices and consumer protection.

For supermarkets, Robinsons Supermarket received Gold Seal renewals for its branches in RP Cebu Fuente, Banilad, Talisay, Pueblo Verde Mactan, Talamban, Tabunok, Island Central Mactan, Cebu Baseline, and Minglanilla. Colonnade Supermarket was also recognized for its Colon branch, which was awarded for its commitment to service quality and compliance.

7-Eleven, a leading convenience store chain, earned recognition for sixteen of its branches located in Dumanjug, Tabunok 2, Bulacao Pardo 1, Lutopan, Pooc (Talisay), Badian, Pinamungajan, Sangi, Argao, KM 29 San Fernando, Laray (Talisay), Simala, Flying SRP Uldog, Boljoon, Ginatilan, and Mantalongon (Barili), reflecting its wide reach and consistent service standards across the province. In 7-Eleven’s acceptance speech delivered by Osmeño Faner, Marketing Support And Consumer Relations Specialist of the Philippine Seven Corporation, he stated that “We understand that receiving this recognition is not easy, as there are parameters to be accomplished and maintained, especially in our daily transactions with our valued customers. In return, we uphold our vision to care for our customers, and without their loyalty, the success of 7-Eleven would not be possible. that is why, ay lalo pa po naming paigtingin ang aming paglilingkod at serbisyo sa lahat ng 7-eleven customers.”

Also recognized were Abenson at Gmall of Cebu and Automatic Centre Ayala, both cited for their strong quality assurance systems and dependable after-sales service for appliance stores. In the DTI Accredited Service and Repair Shop, Jiga Mags and Tires received recognition for its branches in Mandaue, Mactan, and North Road Mandaue, which consistently demonstrated reliable service and a commitment to consumer-focused practices

These awardees have collectively contributed to promoting a safe, trustworthy, and consumer-friendly marketplace, reflecting the core values of the Bagwis Program and reinforcing Cebu’s commitment to business integrity and excellence.

The award ceremony also featured messages of recognition from local chambers.

Mr. Jay Fernandez, Vice President for Business Development of the Philippine Retailers Association Cebu Chapter commended the honorees for their principled leadership:

“In a world where shortcuts are tempting, you chose the path of integrity. And in doing so, you’ve not only raised the bar—you’ve lit the way. Your work proves that running a business with honesty, compassion, and respect is not only possible—it’s powerful.”

Mr. Jay Yuvallos, President of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry , through its LEAD A-MUST agenda, emphasized the critical role of values-driven entrepreneurship:

“In these times, when global competitiveness is measured not only by technology and speed but by transparency and trust, your achievements help us tell the world that Cebu is ready. We are ready to do business—and we are prepared to do it the right way.”

Similarly, a message from Mr. Archie Campo, President of the City of Talisay Chamber of Commerce, Trade, and Industry, Inc., was delivered by his representative. In his statement, he lauded the awardees’ dedication, saying:

“This recognition is not the finish line—it is a milestone. The DTI Bagwis Seal of Excellence is more than just a badge on a storefront—it is a public declaration of your values.”

Acting Assistant Regional Director Epifania F. Suralta of DTI Region VII, aslo delivered a message of commendation to the awardees.

According to Atty. Airene E. Abapo, Officer-in-Charge of DTI Cebu’s Consumer Protection Division, by proudly bearing the 2024 Gold Bagwis Seals, the awardees exemplify how upholding integrity in business not only protects consumer welfare but also paves the way for long-term success.

The DTI encourages more business establishments to aspire for the Bagwis Seal of Excellence by embracing ethical business practices, prioritizing consumer rights, and continuously raising the bar in service quality. (DTI Cebu) ♦

Date of Release: 23 June 2025