In an bid to strengthen the implementation of the Vape Law, technical regulations, and other fair-trade laws, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently conducted an immersive training with key DTI regional counterparts in Northern Luzon and Muslim Mindanao

These training sessions were conducted in coordination with the Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection Division (TRCP) of the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT). They included participants from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and DTI Region 2 (Cagayan Valley Region), aiming to enhance their enforcement capabilities and foster collaboration between DTI offices.

The DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) led the programs including joint enforcement activities targeting vape stores and other retail outlets across Makati and Taguig.

The TRCP first participated in the FTEB’s enforcement operations in Makati and Taguig on May 16 as part of their “Training on Enforcement & Familiarization on Sales Promotion, Accreditation of Service Repair Shops and Private Emission Testing Centers.”

Meanwhile, the DTI R2 conducted their Regional Monitoring and Enforcement Study Tour Visit and joined the FTEB in the monitoring and enforcement of vape retail stores in Makati City on June 5.

In a statement, Trade Secretary Fred  Pascual assured that the DTI remains committed to promoting a safe and fair marketplace.

“Through proactive measures such as stringent nationwide enforcement and comprehensive trainings, the DTI remains unwavering in its commitment to consumer welfare and fair trade,” Secretary Pascual said.

Supervising Head and Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro  Uvero of the DTI-Fair Trade Group (FTG) emphasized the importance of such stakeholder engagement. He said, “As we intensify efforts to enforce the Vape Law, it is imperative that our enforcement teams are equipped with the necessary skills and updated knowledge.”

“We strive not only to ensure compliance with fair trade regulations, but also to prioritize the capability of our monitors and enforcers to carry out our mandate,” he added.

According to DTI-FTEB Director Fhillip D. Sawali, the training reinforces the active engagement of regional counterparts through a nationwide sweep of retail markets by Task Force Kalasag and its accompanying capability-enhancement programs.

The DTI encourages the public to report violators, including retailers, distributors, and manufacturers selling uncertified items, through the Consumer Care Hotline at 1-DTI (1-384), or via email at consumercare@dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of release: 19 June 2024

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