The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has vowed to take strong measures against illegal business operations to safeguard consumers and maintain fair trade.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 10, Trade Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual said that illegal business operations will face zero tolerance in all cities in the country.
“We are united with local governments and agencies in our unwavering commitment to enforce the law and hold those responsible accountable," Pascual said. "Illegal business operations will not be tolerated in every city across the country.”
Pascual issued the statement following the raid in Valenzuela on June 26, which led to the closure of an illegally operating appliance warehouse.
"Let this closure serve as a stern warning to all businesses operating illegally: The DTI will not hesitate to take decisive action to protect consumers and uphold fair trade," Pascual said.
The Valenzuela City Business Permit and Licensing Office shuttered the appliance warehouse following a joint raid that uncovered its operation without a valid business permit.
Moreover, the DTI confiscated 9,874 units of uncertified household appliances valued at almost P7.8 million.
The confiscated merchandise included induction cookers, electric kettles, electric fans, electric rice cookers, food processors, electric blenders, and washing machines.
These products lacked the mandatory safety and quality markings—specifically the Philippine Standard mark and Import Commodity Clearance sticker—mandated by the Bureau of Philippine Standards.
The warehouse violated Republic Act (RA) No. 4109, also known as the Products Standards Law, and Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 02: 2007.
"Our partnership with the Valenzuela LGU exemplifies the power of collaboration in upholding consumer rights and ensuring that only safe and certified products reach the market,” Pascual said.
“We commend the Valenzuela City BPLO for their swift action in closing down this illegal establishment," he added.
The enforcement operation in Valenzuela is part of the DTI’s intensified nationwide efforts to sweep through business establishments and eradicate uncertified products from the Philippine markets.