The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), busted uncertified sanitary wares and self-ballasted LED lamps worth Php352,775.00 during its heightened enforcement operation in Manila, on 20 January 2023.

Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo led the DTI enforcement teams in inspecting 15 retail firms along Tomas Mapua Street, Sta. Cruz, Manila.

The focused enforcement of DTI technical regulations has seized 190 units of sanitary wares, particularly water closets, urinals, and lavatories; ceramic tiles; and self-ballasted LED lamps.

Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo sealing uncertified sanitary wares in Sta. Cruz, Manila, on 20 January 2023.

Consequently, six (6) non-compliant firms were issued with a Notice of Violation (NOV), mandating them to explain within 48 hours from the receipt of the notice.

“The DTI boosts its on-the-ground operations and market visibility to spread awareness among manufacturers, retailers, and consumers that even consumer products, like the uncertified sanitary wares and self-ballasted LED lamps that we sealed today, have to undergo and pass the DTI mandatory testing schemes,” said Usec. Castelo.

Usec. Castelo also emphasized that such operations and market visibility not only uphold consumer protection and welfare but also send a strong warning that the Department will pursue appropriate action against violators.

Last 12 January 2023, the DTI’s ramped-up enforcement operation in Quezon City led to the sealing of uncertified household appliances, lighting devices, and ceramic products worth Php482,121.15.

Apart from its intense enforcement of technical regulations in the National Capital Region, DTI-FTEB also conducts random operations in other Regions to expand its advocacy on consumer protection and education.

The nationwide campaign of DTI against uncertified items in the market underscores the enforcement of DTI technical regulations mandating compliance with Philippine Standard Certification Mark Schemes, particularly Department Administrative Order No. 02, Series of 2007.

To protect consumers or potential buyers of electrical and electronic products; mechanical or building and construction materials; and chemical and other consumer products and systems, DTI – Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) covered products and systems through implementing Mandatory Product Certification Schemes: the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark Licensing Scheme and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Certification Scheme.

The DTI urges consumers to report retailers, distributors, and manufacturers that sell uncertified items, through the Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or consumercare@dti.gov.ph.

Date of release: 20 January 2023