Our Story
The Consumers Union of the Philippines (CUP) is a union of
the consumers throughout the country for mutual benefits. Its primary
objective then till now, is to educate the people of their consumer rights,
protect their welfare in an aggressive and competitive industry and
provide legal advice and assistance to those consumers victimized
by unscrupulous businessmen and unfair trade practi
ces. Existing for
more than four (4) decades now, today, CUP is one of the biggest and
premier consumer organizations in the country duly recognized by the
government, business sector, civic and religious groups and consumers
from all walks of life. Circa 1962, a group of civic-spirited citizens headed by Mr. Asuncion organized under the name of Consumers Association of the
Philippines. After a few years of operation and for reasons beyond its
control, the Consumers Association of the Philippines ceased to be active. The setbacks experienced brought in April, 1970, the reorganization of the
association under the dynamic leadership of Prof. Ernie A. Angeles and
the Consumers Union of the Philippines was re-established. In its desire to be of help not only for the consumer’s welfare and
protection it also aimed to give credit to businessmen, manufacturers, and
those involved in the economic activities. CUP has organized the Annual
National Consumers Award in 1973 with then Minister, and later Senator
Francisco Tatad as Chairman and the late Prof. Angeles as
Secretary General and the late Don Antonio Roxas Chua and Col. Antonio
Cabangon Chua as Finance Officers. Despite the many concerns, ANCA
was pushed through in 1973 at the Silahis International Hotel. It was a
resounding success with 55 awardees under individual, product and
service categories. Five (5) ANCA awards followed thereafter until the
death of Prof. Angeles. After Professor Angeles’ death, a group of concerned citizens
reorganized the CUP, headed by Com. Quirino “Chino” Marquinez,
together with Judge Zacarias Crispin, Bishop Sonia Lim, Lily Nicolas and
many other prominent citizens who continued the legacy left by their
predecessors. The impact of globalization, undeniably are felt by the consumers,
CUP, through the years has continued to be strong, and active in the
frontline to protect its interests and the Filipino consumers.
