Valenzuela City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) raid in Valenzuela on June 26 has led to the closure of an illegal appliance warehouse operating under the name OOKAS PH.

“Let this closure serve as a stern warning to all businesses operating illegally: The DTI will not hesitate to take decisive action to protect consumers and uphold fair trade,” said DTI Secretary Fred Pascual.

“Illegal business operations will not be tolerated in every city across the country. We are united with local governments and agencies in our unwavering commitment to enforce the law and hold those responsible accountable,” he added.

The Valenzuela City Business Permit and Licensing Office ordered the closure after the joint raid revealed that the establishment was operating without a valid business permit. Moreover, the DTI’s search and seizure yielded 9,874 units of uncertified household appliances with an estimated value of nearly PHP 7.8 million.

Among the seized products were induction cookers, electric kettles, electric fans, electric rice cookers, food processors, electric blenders, and washing machines. These products lacked Philippine Standard mark and Import Commodity Clearance sticker, the mandatory safety and quality markings implemented by the Bureau of Philippine Standards.

The warehouse, operated by Ibenson Trading Corporation, blatantly violated Republic Act (RA) No. 4109, also known as the Products Standards Law, and Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 02: 2007.

“Our partnership with the Valenzuela LGU exemplifies the power of collaboration in upholding consumer rights and ensuring that only safe and certified products reach the market. We commend the Valenzuela City BPLO for their swift action in closing down this illegal establishment,” he added.

The enforcement operation in Valenzuela is part of the DTI’s intensified nationwide efforts to sweep through business establishments and eradicate uncertified products from the Philippine markets.

Consumers are encouraged to report any retailers, distributors, or manufacturers selling uncertified items through the Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or by emailing consumercare@dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of release: 10 July 2024

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