Enforcement teams deployed in the different provinces here checks on the markings on steel bars in randomly selected hardware stores in the region.

Of the 41 establishments randomly monitored by enforcement teams deployed in the provinces here, 18 hardware stores were found selling uncertified/ substandard steel bars following the synchronized conduct of monitoring and enforcement in the country yesterday.

In Iloilo Province, four establishments were caught selling uncertified/ substandard steel bars out of the 17 establishments monitored; Aklan Province has three out of the five stores checked; Antique Province with three out of the seven stores monitored; Negros Occidental Province with five out of the six monitored; Guimaras Province with two out of the three establishments checked; and, Capiz Province with one violator out of the three hardware stores monitored.

These establishments have 48 hours to explain at DTI Provincial Offices why formal charges should not be filed against them. Sanctions for violating the Products Standards Law include imposition of administrative fine and confiscation of non-conforming products for disposition in accordance with DTI and Commission on Audit rules and regulations.

DTI-6 Regional Director Rebecca M. Rascon earlier said that business establishment owners, especially those selling mandatory products, have been invited and/or have undergone orientations on products standards “but there are still those who violate.”
 
Rascon calls on business establishments to comply with the Product Standards Law. She also encouraged the public to report unscrupulous business establishments.

“We are serious in implementing the laws. Let us not deny the consumers the quality of the product that they buy,” she said. “While businessmen aim for profit, they should be held liable for violations that cause the loss of life and property,” she added.♦

Date of release: 8 July 2019