Makati City, Philippines—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual announced that its Task Force Kalasag’s three separate raids across Valenzuela City, Bulacan, and Cavite brought about PHP 25.4 million in uncertified home appliances and consumer goods.
“The DTI lauds the Task Force Kalasag’s recent successes, with three separate raids across Valenzuela City, Bulacan, and Cavite intercepting millions in uncertified home appliances and consumer goods. These operations demonstrate the effectiveness of our collaborative efforts in combating illicit trade and protecting consumers,” said Secretary Pascual.
“We recognize the unique dynamics in the regions and provinces, where personal relationships can sometimes hinder enforcement efforts. The Task Force Kalasag serves as an impartial force, ensuring that the rule of law is upheld and fair trade practices are enforced across the country,” he added.
The recent raids, conducted in collaboration with local government units and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), were initiated in response to consumer complaints and online monitoring.
On June 26, a raid on a Valenzuela City warehouse resulted in the seizure of 9,874 non-compliant appliances worth nearly PHP 7.8 million, leading to the closure of the establishment due to operating without a valid business permit.
Similar operations in Plaridel, Bulacan targeted two warehouses, resulting in the confiscation of 9,428 non-compliant appliances valued over PHP 9.3 million.
In Tanza, Cavite, enforcement action led to the seizure of 14,123 uncertified appliances worth over PHP 8.2 million. The establishment was immediately shut down by the Tanza Municipality.
The seized products were in violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 4109 or the Products Standards Law and Department Administrative Order No. 02: 2007, as they did not bear the required Philippine Standard Marks and Import Commodity Clearance Stickers. Furthermore, these products were found to be in violation of RA 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, specifically concerning deceptive sales practices.
“Our enforcement operations are not meant to hinder business, but to ensure a fair and safe marketplace for both consumers and retailers. I urge all retailers to make a conscious choice to prioritize high-quality and certified products. Do not fall victim to the allure of cheap and uncertified goods, as these often come with hidden costs and risks,” said the trade chief.
“To our valued consumers, I call on you to be vigilant and discerning. Support retailers who offer certified products, and together, we can create a market that prioritizes safety and quality,” he added.
Since its inception in April 2024, the Task Force Kalasag has swept a staggering 311,206 units of such products, including a significant number of vape units, valued at a total of PHP 89.7 million.
The Task Force Kalasag is a specialized unit within the DTI tasked with intensifying the Department’s monitoring, surveillance, enforcement, prosecution, and adjudication activities related to trade and industry laws, rules, and regulations. The task force is also responsible for conducting rapid response actions during times of calamities, disasters, and public emergencies. ♦
Date of release: 16 July 2024
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