BAYOMBONG, NUEVA VIZCAYA – Saint Mary’s University (SMU) has joined forces with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2 Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Office for the launch of the 2025 Consumer Welfare Month (CWM) observance. Mandated by Presidential Proclamation No. 1098, the month-long celebration aims to significantly boost consumer awareness by providing information on policies and programs dedicated to protecting consumer rights.

This year’s theme, “Bida ang Konsumer sa Bagong Pilipinas” (The Consumer is the Star in the New Philippines), highlights the critical role Filipino consumers play in shaping a fair and ethical marketplace. The initiative supports the national agenda to empower consumers, reinforce their rights, and promote a robust culture of accountability among businesses.

SMU demonstrated its commitment through active participation in the CWM Kick-off Activity held on October 1, 2025, at the Provincial Capitol of Nueva Vizcaya. The university was represented by Dr. Harrison T. Villanueva and a delegation of students from the Business and Office Administration and Entrepreneurship departments, ensuring future professionals are engaged in consumer advocacy.

Beyond the official kick-off, SMU will continue to support the campaign throughout October by prominently displaying a consumer welfare message on the LED wall at the university entrance. This highly visible effort is aimed at raising awareness across the academic and local community.

SMU’s proactive involvement in CWM underscores its deep commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). By championing consumer welfare, SMU reinforces its vital role as an institution actively building a more just and sustainable community in Nueva Vizcaya.