Plastic pipes and ceramic items worth over Php 5.8 million seized by DTI Task Force Kalasag in Zamboanga | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

Zamboanga, Philippines—As part of its sustained nationwide crackdown on substandard items to enforce compliance with technical and safety product regulations, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Task Force Kalasag seized 59,261 non-compliant consumer products worth PHP 5,873,240 during its enforcement rounds in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay from June 3 to 7.

Uncertified plastic pipes and ceramic products amounting to over Php 2.8 million made up nearly half of the entire haul. Other consumer products that were also seized include cement and other construction materials worth PHP 1,237,095; low carbon steel wires worth PHP 865,120; automotive-related products worth PHP 643,093; household appliances worth PHP 198,405; chemical products worth PHP 17,036; monobloc chairs worth PHP 7,995; and lighting and wiring devices worth PHP 5,990.

The products were seized due to the lack or misleading use of mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) markings, and the absence of manufacturer and other product-related information. Such are violations of Department Administrative Order No. 02: 2007 which requires certain consumer goods to undergo testing and certification by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS).

Firms selling non-compliant products are issued Notices of Violation requiring them to submit a written explanation within 48 hours upon receipt. Failure to do so may lead to formal charges and penalties.

“This is yet another enforcement win, not just for DTI, but for all Filipinos. With Task Force Kalasag, the DTI not only demonstrates its dedication to fulfilling its mandate but also to exceeding expectations for consumer welfare across all regions, that everyone remains safe from uncertified, substandard, and violative products,” DTI Secretary Fred Pascual said.

Since it began actively operating in April, the DTI Task Force Kalasag has been combing retail establishments across the country, monitoring and enforcing the compliance of consumer products with relevant trade and industry laws, rules, and regulations.

As of 16 July, the total retail value of the 311,206 confiscated items stands at PHP 89.7 million.

The DTI urges the public 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: 18 July 2024

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