(Filed by 104.7 iFM News Dagupan) 

DTI takes action to protect consumers 

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 1’s Enforcement and Monitoring Team has intensified its regular inspections to ensure supermarkets and grocery stores comply with fair trade laws. The initiative seeks to shield consumers from overpricing and to guarantee that goods on shelves are safe and properly labeled.

DTI officials said the effort is part of the agency’s continuing push to uphold consumer rights, especially during the busy holiday season when demand and risks of abusive pricing are higher. The agency vowed to sustain its monitoring activities to promote fair and responsible business practices across the region.

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TODA members interviewed for ayuda

The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has begun interviewing members of the Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) in Dagupan City who were affected by Typhoon “Uwan.” The assessment is part of the government’s validation process to determine which operators and drivers qualify for financial aid from the national government.

Around 1,500 tricycle drivers and operators comprise the first batch of beneficiaries now undergoing screening, along with personnel from the Public Order and Safety Office (POSO). A second batch of up to 3,000 TODA members is scheduled for interviews in the coming days.

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Puto Festival schedule unveiled

The Calasiao municipal government has released the official lineup for the nine-day Calasiao Puto Festival set from December 5 to 13, 2025, highlighting the town’s rich arts, culture, and traditions centered on its famed native rice cake, the “puto.” The festival aims to showcase Calasiao’s heritage through community-driven events and attractions designed to draw both local and visiting crowds.

Among the activities scheduled are a motor show, a parol-making contest, a puto construction and design competition, and a lively street party. Mayor Patrick Caramat said the celebration seeks to boost tourism while strengthening support for homegrown products and entrepreneurs. (Nil Moyano)

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DTI draws flak over P500 Noche Buena remark

Residents across Pangasinan have slammed Trade Secretary Christine Roque for her statement that P500 is enough to prepare a noche buena meal for a family of four, calling the claim “unrealistic” amid soaring market prices. Locals noted that even basic grocery items have become difficult to afford, with many saying the amount would barely cover a loaf of bread, much less the essential ingredients for a traditional Christmas spread.

Community members further pointed out that staple holiday fare has become prohibitively expensive, citing lechon prices that now reach P400 for just a quarter-kilo. Critics argued that the DTI chief’s remark reflects a disconnect from the daily struggles of ordinary families who are grappling with inflation as the holiday season approaches. (Joana DeVera)

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Hearings on antenna ban put on hold

The committee on laws, ordinances, and judiciary of the Sangguniang Panglungsod in Dagupan City has put on hold further hearings on the proposed ordinance seeking to ban the construction of radio and television antennas, communication towers, and advertising billboards on existing buildings. Committee Chair Councilor Jose Netu Tamayo said the measure requires deeper study before advancing.

Vice Chair Councilor Michael Fernandez added that the committee must first gather input from the National Telecommunications Commission and various telecommunications companies to ensure that the ordinance will not impede essential communication services. The hearings will resume once all required technical guidance is secured. (Joana DeVera)

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Bayambang ramps up roof repair drive

The Bayambang local government has intensified repair and rehabilitation work for homes damaged by Typhoon “Uwan,” with teams now moving house to house to assess needs and deliver materials. The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) are jointly implementing the program to fast-track assistance to affected families.

Under the scheme, households with completely damaged roofs will receive six GI sheets, while those with partial damage will be given three. Officials assure residents that the program will continue until every affected home is restored, underscoring the LGU’s commitment to helping the community recover from the typhoon’s impact. (Joana DeVera)

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Bangus supply drop alarms Pangasinan consumers

Consumers in several Pangasinan towns are expressing concern over the dwindling supply of bangus in local markets, with the Mangaldan Public Market among the hardest hit. Market vendors report reduced deliveries as sourcing from the Dagupan City Public Market becomes increasingly difficult amid a P10-per-kilo increase in milkfish prices.

Fish growers, still reeling from the heavy losses inflicted by Typhoon “Uwan,” say they can only supply limited quantities for now as damaged ponds recover. They remain hopeful, however, that milkfish availability will gradually improve in the coming weeks as rehabilitation efforts continue. (Denise Brillante)

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Archbishop Soc urges Catholics to do good now

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of the Lingayen-Dagupan Archdiocese has called on the Catholic faithful to embrace the spirit of goodness as Christmas draws near. He reminded churchgoers that time is a sacred gift from God and should be used wisely, urging them to act with compassion and kindness in their daily lives.

Speaking before congregants, Archbishop Villegas stressed that “now, not tomorrow, is the time to do good,” underscoring the need for personal reflection and moral renewal in preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. He encouraged the faithful to internalize this message and make genuine efforts toward spiritual reform. (Jam Victorio)

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Peaceful “Trillion Peso March” marked in Pangasinan

The “Trillion Peso March” held in Pangasinan on Bonifacio Day proceeded peacefully and without incident, according to the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office. Demonstrations calling for accountability in alleged corruption involving flood-control projects were limited to church grounds, where participants gathered for prayers and solidarity activities.

In a related assignment, the Pangasinan PNP deployed 350 personnel to Metro Manila on November 30 to augment the Civil Disturbance Management Contingent for major events at EDSA and Rizal Park. Authorities said the additional forces were part of standard security preparations to ensure order during nationwide protest actions.