SM, PCC team up on fair trade

SM Supermalls on Tuesday signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) to "champion fair competition and consumer welfare." The partnership was launched on Tuesday at the main office of the PCC in Quezon City; it includes a nationwide information campaign to raise awareness over the agency's mandate to promote the benefits of fair competition and to underscore the commitment of the mall giant to having an inclusive business environment. "SM Supermalls recognizes its enduring partnership with the PCC. SM Supermalls believes that fair market competition will lead to a vibrant and inclusive economy and advance consumer welfare," SM Assistant Vice President for Operations Ian Mathay said in a statement. "It likewise shares the PCC's vision that fair market competition serves the interest of consumers by allowing them to exercise their right of choice over goods and services offered in the market," he added. The mall giant's president, Steven Tan, said they are "proud" of the new partnership with the PCC. "By working together, we can empower consumers to make informed choices and contribute to a robust and competitive market," Tan said.