ISABELA -- At least P368,160 worth of uncertified products were disposed of by the Department of Trade and Industry Region 02 Isabela Provincial Office as a result of its intensive monitoring and enforcement operations from 2019 to 2021.

The crushed confiscated products consisted of LED bulbs, electric tapes, inner tubes, Christmas lights, and household appliances that were found to be not bearing mandatory product certification markings as required by the Philippine National Standards (PNS).

Provincial Director Ma. Sofia G. Narag said the destruction of uncertified products is part of DTI’s mandate to promote product safety awareness and consumer protection in Isabela.

The DTI's continuous efforts in carrying out its enforcement activities were complemented by a consumer and business education forum.

According to the Consumer Protection Division Office, the conduct of the disposal complies with DTI Department Administrative Order No. 17, s. 1990, which specifies that confiscated goods that endanger public safety must be destroyed or condemned.

Meanwhile, the agency called on the responsibility of consumers in assisting the DTI in identifying businesses that distribute these dangerous items so that appropriate action may be taken.

The destruction was held in an open lot in Alibagu, City of Ilagan and was witnessed by the Commission on Audit, City Environment & Natural Resources Office (CENRO), representative from Ilagan City Consumers Network, Inc., and the local media.