SAN JOSE, Occidental Mindoro (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Occidental Mindoro will destroy confiscated products on Saturday, March 15, in observance of World Consumer Rights Day.
DTI Provincial Director Noel Flores said the products scheduled for destruction were found not bearing the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker.
These were items seized during DTI’s monitoring operations in 2024 for failing to meet quality and safety standards.
Flores previously explained that the PS mark and the ICC sticker serve as consumer’s guide and assurance that products comply with the Philippine National Standards (PNS) and are safe to use.
During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, March 11, Flores enumerated the confiscated products include G.I. wire, LED bulbs, LED lamps, ceiling fans, sanitary wares, and other items, with a total estimated value of P341,045.
“Before these items are destroyed, we secure clearance from the Commission on Audit (COA) and coordinate with partner agencies such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and local government units,” Flores said.
The destruction will take place in public to raise awareness, encourage consumers to be more cautious when purchasing goods that require mandatory certification, and make it a habit to look for the PS Mark or ICC Sticker on the items they buy.
Flores also reminded business establishments to avoid buying products online from unverified sellers, as they cannot guarantee the quality and compliance of these items.
He further warned that retailers caught selling unmarked products may face penalties in accordance with DTI regulations. (VND/PIA MIMAROPA-Occidental Mindoro)
