The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced it has destroyed P1.79 million worth of uncertified products to mark World Consumer Rights Day last March 15.
According to the agency's press statement, 3,110 units of items ranging from uncertified fireworks, helmets, monobloc chairs, sanitary wares, and vape products, were destroyed, as the agency's way to showcase its commitment to accountability and consumer safety.
These products did not pass the Philippine National Standards (PNS) or did not possess Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and safety mark stickers, as well as an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker.
DTI affirmed its commitments to reduce non-compliant, uncertified, and substandard products circulating in the mass market.
“The destruction of confiscated products is a strong warning to violators that the DTI stands to protect Filipino consumers. These uncertified products pose health and safety, and we will take all the necessary steps to keep them out of Filipino homes and market,” said DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual.
The agency, through the Bureau of Philippine Standards, continues to regulate 111 products and systems through the PS Quality and Safety Certification Mark Licensing Scheme and ICC Certification Scheme, particularly for electronic, mechanical, construction, and chemical materials and items.
To prevent uncertified products from being purchased in the market, DTI urges the public to report retails, distributors, and manufacturers who are violating the policy.