The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) seized over PHP 2.4 million worth of non-compliant steel products following several enforcement operations in the first trimester of 2024

The DTI, through its Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), confiscated a total of 7,723 units of uncertified steel products after inspecting hardware stores in the CALABARZON Region on February 27 and March 21, as well as in the National Capital Region on April 8.

Yielding the highest value among the products confiscated were low carbon steel wires and deformed steel bars, amounting to PHP 1,591,300 and PHP 866,500, respectively. Substandard equal leg steel angle bars and steel wire nails were also among the items seized.

In so far as steel product enforcement is concerned from January to April 2024, FTEB was able to monitor and inspect 289 retail firms, 41 of which were found with non-compliant products. This led to the issuance of Notices of Violation (NOV) that mandated them to explain within 48 hours.

Secretary Fred Pascual said that the DTI has been intensifying its monitoring and enforcement efforts through the creation of Task Force Kalasag, which aims to crack down on uncertified consumer products, including substandard construction materials.

“We urge our consumers to be vigilant and to buy only certified products to ensure their safety,” Secretary Pascual said. “The risk of accidents is substantially higher when you use substandard steel. Please don’t compromise the well-being of your family for price,” he added.

Meanwhile, Secretary Pascual reiterated that the DTI, through its equipped enforcers, is strictly monitoring and enforcing regulations against uncertified and substandard products in the market.

The DTI continues its nationwide campaign against the selling of non-compliant and uncertified products, which includes the enforcement of technical regulations mandating compliance with Philippine Standard Certification Mark Schemes in accordance with Department Administrative Order No. 02, Series of 2007, as well as the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

The Department urges consumers to report retailers, merchants, and sellers selling illegal, uncertified, and substandard items through the Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or consumercare@dti.gov.ph. The public may also file consumer-related complaints through the Philippine Online Dispute Resolution System (PODRS) or podrs.dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of release: 10 May 2024

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