The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) strengthened product standards and market safety by clearing ₱53 million worth of uncertified appliances and ceramic sanitary wares identified through online test buys, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to keep only compliant goods available to consumers.

As part of its Consumer Act mandate, the DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau and its E-Kalasag units found some items with fake or misleading Philippine Standard (PS) marks and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers.

Several QR codes, on the other hand, failed verification—either missing from the system, linked to the wrong product models, or outside their certified scope. Other products lacked required manufacturer labels, specifically the manufacturer’s name and address.

Through the enforcement sweep, DTI cleared 4,745 non-compliant appliances valued at almost ₱20 million from stores in Bulacan and Meycauayan City. These included refrigerators, washing machines, electric fans, ovens, rice cookers, and blenders.

In Plaridel, Bulacan, the team also seized 46,342 pieces of substandard ceramic sanitary wares valued at ₱33.3 million.

Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the presence of uncertified goods in the market threatens household safety.

“The DTI supports enterprise growth, but never at the expense of safety. Clearing out uncertified products helps prevent fires, electrical incidents, and other home accidents. Filipino households deserve dependable appliances and sanitary wares that comply with national standards,” Roque said.

Under the Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2:2007, companies selling products covered by mandatory certification must secure approval before these items are offered to consumers. Failure to comply may lead to penalties and legal action depending on the gravity of the offense. END

Date of Release: 4 December 2025