What is the consumer law and how can the DOH relate and contribute to it

        When you go spending, you have certain expectations for your buying experience. You expect to be treated fairly and honestly, and you anticipate to get what you pay for. Many of these fundamental rights are safeguarded by a law known as consumer law, which is intended to protect the customer from being deceived. However, there still are stores out there who will take advantage of consumers especially in healthcare essentials.

        There are many people out there who do not know about the hidden ingredients in our daily hygeiene products. The daily products of the average person are face wash, soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorants and conditioners. Surprisingly, all of these products listed contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to our body. For example, a common soap many filipinos use is Safeguard. However do you know that it contains toxins like Parabens which are used as preservatives and Sodium Sulfate (Lauryl, Laureth) which are used to make them foam and smell good? Parabens are byproducts of the production of dioxane which is a carcinogen and sodium sulfate is harmful when inhaled which can cause inflammation of the throat and lungs. 

        The many harmful substances found in common products are regulated by a department of the government that specializes in health products called Department of Health or DOH for short. The DOH is the main health agency in the Philippines. It is responsible for ensuring the proper regulation and access of all public health products and consumables ranging from food and medicine to healthcare and beauty products. 

        The DOH can help in the strict implementation of consumer rights through regulating these products whether they are known to be toxic or something we use everyday. If ever there are any products that are found to be hazardous to the health and the environment, after a thorough investigation they can prohibit the use in order to prevent harm to the consumer. In any event that a product is out of their jurisdiction, they will contact other government agencies that specialize in such areas.

        Overall, the Consumer Protection Act aids in ensuring that transactions are carried out honestly and with integrity. When people do not listen to the system, together with it's attached agencies, the DOH can assist consumers in receiving the product they deserve.