Quezon City, Philippines—The joint operation of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Task Force Kalasag (TFK) with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized nearly PHP 94 million worth of automotive-related products from “CSS Autoparts” warehouse in Quezon City, September 09.
This record-breaking haul led to the immediate closure of the warehouse by the Quezon City local government.
“We refuse to wait for accidents, injuries, or even deaths to happen before taking action. This operation sends a clear message: We will not tolerate the sale of hazardous and substandard products that put lives of Filipinos at risk,” said DTI Acting Secretary Cristina Roque.
“Our aim is not to hinder businesses but to ensure a level playing field. By removing dangerous and uncertified goods, we protect consumers and support legitimate businesses that prioritize quality and compliance. Aligned with the President’s goal of Bagong Pilipinas, we aim to safeguarding our consumers from products that compromise their well-being,” she added.
The DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) has certified that the seized 20,809 units of uncertified lead-acid storage batteries and tires for automotive vehicles are in violation of Republic Act 4109, or the Products Standards Law and Department Administrative Order No. 02. These items lack the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) marks and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers.
During a press conference, Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) Director Fhillip Sawali emphasized safety above all else.
“Let us not prioritize saving money at the expense of our safety. Always look for the PS and ICC marks on products and purchase certified automotive products from reputable sources,” said Director Sawali.
Reinforcing the need for vigilance, DTI Fair Trade Group (FTG) Supervising Head Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro Uvero stressed the significance of continuous monitoring and swift removal of unsafe products in the market.
“By eliminating these uncertified products from the market, we can ensure a safer environment that promotes fair competition among responsible and legitimate businesses,” said Assistant Secretary Uvero.
Manned by the FTG-FTEB enforcement unit, the DTI-TFK conducts nationwide monitoring, surveillance, enforcement, prosecution, and adjudication of fair trade laws.
Since its formation in April 2024, the Task Force Kalasag has already confiscated nearly 31,000 units of automotive-related products amounting to PHP 114.7 million.
This joint operation builds on a memorandum of understanding signed between the DTI and NBI on June 11, aimed at leveraging their investigative and technical expertise to benefit consumers and legitimate businesses.
The DTI urges the public to report any retailers, distributors, or manufacturers selling uncertified items through DTI (1-384) or by emailing consumercare@dti.gov.ph. For any other consumer-related concerns or complaints, reach out to ReportToSec@dti.gov.ph. END
