QUEZON CITY (PIA) — In a significant move to protect consumer rights and promote fair trade practices, the Valenzuela City Government, led by Mayor Wes Gatchalian, conducted “Operation Timbangan” on Wednesday, January 15, at Karuhatan Market.
Said operation resulted in the confiscation and destruction of 130 non-compliant weighing scales from various markets across the city. This initiative highlights the administration’s strong commitment to market integrity and consumer welfare.
The operation aligns with Republic Act No. 11706, or the “Timbangan ng Bayan Act,” which mandates the establishment of Timbangan ng Bayan Centers in public and private markets. These centers allow consumers to verify the accuracy of weighing instruments. Under this law, violators face stiff penalties ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱300,000, imprisonment of one to five years, or both. Repeat offenders risk losing their business permits, ensuring stringent enforcement and accountability.
On a local level, Valenzuela City enforces Ordinance No. 903, Series of 2021, also known as the New Market Code, which imposes fines between ₱5,000 and ₱15,000 for using tampered or non-compliant weighing devices. These combined measures showcase the city’s proactive stance in ensuring fairness in trade and safeguarding consumer rights.
Valenzuela Mayor Weslie Gatchalian leads the inspection of weighing scales (timbangan) during the “Operation Timbangan” at the Karuhatan Market on January 15, Wednesday. (Photo by Valenzuela LGU)
“Hindi po rason ang pagmahal ng bilihin, dahil lahat naman po tayo ay naghahanap-buhay, importante po na tayo ay tapat sa ating gawain. Dito po sa Valenzuela, ang pinaiiral natin ay disiplina, ayaw po nating pinagsasamantalahan ang ating mga consumer. Dapat po natin silang protektahan, bilang bahagi ng ating misyon na pagandahan ang ating environment dito sa lungsod.” Mayor Gatchalian said.
[Price increase is not an excuse, because we are all just working for a living, what’s important is that we work truthfully. Here in Valenzuela, we are disciplined, and we don’t want our consumers to be fooled. We must protect them as part of our mission to create a better environment here in the city.]
Aside from enforcing regulations, Operation Timbangan emphasized education and awareness. Vendors were guided on the proper use and maintenance of compliant weighing devices, while consumers were informed about their rights and the city government’s ongoing efforts to protect them. This dual approach of enforcement and education fosters trust and accountability in market transactions.
The confiscated weighing scales were destroyed in an environmentally responsible manner, underscoring the city’s commitment to sustainable practices.
By mandating the use of accurate and compliant weighing devices in all market transactions, the Valenzuela City Government strengthens consumer trust while promoting fair and transparent business practices. Through initiatives like Operation Timbangan, Valenzuela City sets a benchmark in consumer protection and exemplifies good governance in action.
The operation was spearheaded by Mayor Gatchalian, in collaboration with DTI-FTEB Director Atty. Regino Mallari, Councilor Ghogo Deato Lee, LEDIPO Head Ms. Janina Bautista, and Karuhatan Punong Barangay Martell Soledad. Their collective efforts underline the city’s dedication to fostering a fair and trustworthy marketplace for all. (AVS/Valenzuela LGU / PIA-NCR)
