Luzon, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Task Force Kalasag has joined forces with Koten Enterprises to seize PHP 355,200 fake Koten circuit breakers. Conducted from 16 to 17 October 2024, operations targeted establishments in Manila and Pampanga suspected of selling counterfeit electrical products.
The enforcement action was triggered by a test-buy conducted by Koten Enterprises, which revealed concerns about the authenticity of circuit breakers being sold under their brand. A total of 879 pieces of counterfeit circuit breakers were recorded during the operations.
The seized products were found to be non-compliant with mandatory certification schemes of the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS). They lacked the necessary Philippine Standards and used unregistered Import Commodity Clearance markings, violating the provisions under Department Administrative Order No. 02, series of 2007.
The items were also found to have violated Article 50 of Republic Act No. 7394, also known as the Consumer Act of the Philippines, which prohibits deceptive sales acts or practices by sellers, retailers, or suppliers in connection to consumer transactions.
“This seizure of counterfeit Koten circuit breakers sends a powerful message: The DTI under Bagong Pilipinas will not falter against violators to protect consumers and fostering a fair marketplace. We will continue to safeguard the integrity of Filipino businesses, ensuring that Filipino consumers have access to safe and reliable products,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.
Following the enforcement operations, the establishments were immediately issued a Notice of Violation (NOV). The businesses were given 48 hours from receipt of the NOV to submit a written explanation for their non-compliance. Formal charges may be filed against firms that fail to comply.
Citing this recent seizure, DTI Fair Trade Group (FTG) Supervising Head Assistant Secretary Teodoro Uvero emphasized the importance of BPS product certification schemes.
“The BPS mandatory certification is a clear way for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to quality and compliance. We strongly encourage all businesses to obtain BPS certification, not only to avoid legal penalties but also to build consumer trust and contribute to a safer marketplace,” Uvero added.
Since its implementation in April 2024, the Task Force Kalasag has seized a total of 120,164 units of non-compliant lighting and wiring devices, valued at a total of PHP 4.5 million.
The task force, carried out by the DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), has partnered with other law enforcement agencies and local government units to conduct joint operations in a bid to intensify its crackdown on non-compliant products.
“Together with our consumer protection partners, including the legitimate businesses, the DTI will be unrelenting in removing uncertified and unsafe products from the market to ensure fair and honest trade,” FTEB Director Fhillip Sawali added.
The DTI urges the public to report retailers, distributors, or manufacturers that sell uncertified and illegal 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. ♦
