The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Takes Action Against Non-Compliant Products
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently made a significant move to protect consumers by destroying a total of 3,110 confiscated and forfeited products. These items, valued at approximately P1.8 million, were found to be non-compliant with safety and quality standards. The destruction of these uncertified products serves as a strong message to raise awareness about the importance of adhering to technical regulations and upholding consumers’ right to safety.
The seized items included 2,202 fireworks, 635 helmets and their visors, 89 monobloc chairs, 56 sanitary wares, and 128 vapor product devices. These products had been stored at the DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau warehouse, awaiting their fate. The decision to destroy them was made to ensure that they would no longer pose any danger or hazard to the market.
According to DTI Assistant Secretary Amanda Marie Nograles, the confiscated items had been seized over the course of the past seven years. However, she noted that there are still more uncertified items that need to be dealt with. Many of the products lacked the necessary Philippine Standard (PS) mark or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker, indicating that they had not undergone the mandatory certification process. Some items even had counterfeit PS marks, further emphasizing the need for their destruction.
To help consumers verify the legitimacy of ICC stickers, Nograles encouraged the use of the ICC verification app. This app allows consumers to easily check if the ICC sticker on a product is genuine. Additionally, she urged consumers to visit the DTI’s website, where they can find a list of legitimate PS marks that correspond to specific products. These measures aim to empower consumers to make informed choices and avoid uncertified products that may compromise their safety.
Nograles assured the public that the DTI remains committed to closely monitoring the consumer market to prevent the spread of uncertified products. This proactive approach is crucial in safeguarding the welfare of consumers and maintaining a fair and competitive marketplace.
It is worth noting that the destruction of these confiscated items aligns with the DTI’s observance of World Consumers’ Rights Day, which takes place on March 15th every year. This global event serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting consumers’ rights and promoting fair trade practices.
In conclusion, the DTI’s recent action to destroy non-compliant products sends a strong message about the agency’s commitment to consumer safety. By raising awareness about the mandatory certification process and providing tools for verification, the DTI empowers consumers to make informed choices. As the DTI continues to monitor the market and take decisive action against uncertified products, consumers can have confidence in the safety and quality of the products they purchase.
Source: The Manila Times
