Visayas, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Task Force Kalasag busted low-carbon steel wires worth nearly PHP 600,000 during a five-day enforcement operation in Samar and Leyte from May 27 to 31.

Inspections revealed the 314 non-compliant rolls of steel wires lacked the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) markings and did not display relevant information manufacturer information, vioalting Department Administrative Order No. 02: 2007 and Republic Act (RA) No. 4109 or the Products Standards Law.

Nine out of ten establishments selling low-carbon steels received a notice of violation, requiring them to submit a written explanation within 48 hours from the receipt.  Failure to comply will result in formal charges and penalties.

“The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is committed to protecting Filipino consumers and ensuring the safety of homes and workplaces by rigorously inspecting the quality of building materials throughout the country,” said DTI Secretary Fred Pascual.

“Having empowered consumers makes our campaign stronger against non-compliant and substandard steel wires. We urge Filipino consumers to purchase certified products bearing the PS and ICC markings to contribute significantly in eliminating the proliferation of substandard materials within the market,” he added.

This operation aligns with the enforcement of mandatory certification schemes overseen by the DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards. These regulations safeguard consumers from potential hazards and ensure consistency in the quality of standardized products available across the market.

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: 05 July 2024

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