Hazardous, unregistered cosmetic products seized in Antipolo raid
Authorities shut down an alleged major illegal manufacturing and distribution network specializing in unregistered and hazardous cosmetic products, seizing various illicit items during a raid in Antipolo City, Rizal.
The operation was conducted by a joint enforcement team composed of the National Bureau of Investigation-Rizal District Office (NBI-RIZDO), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Antipolo Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) in Barangay San Jose on March 25.
The raid followed reports from three victims who allegedly suffered physical injuries and adverse side effects after using products purchased from the suspect. It prompted the NBI-RIZDO to conduct a cyber surveillance operation targeting the social media platforms of the suspect.
The operation led to the arrest of the individual behind the "Dimple Soaps" social media accounts, which authorities said marketed high-risk products, including hair treatments and specialized soaps.
“The Subject utilized online storefronts to market a variety of products, most notably unregistered feminine hygiene bars and soaps marketed with unsubstantiated health claims,” NBI said.
During the operation, authorities seized various illicit products, including hair rebonding treatments and various soaps, such as the "Hikari" brand feminine bars and novelty-molded soaps.
The Antipolo BPLO also confirmed that the manufacturing facility, operating under the names “Dimple Soap,” “Dimple Sabon,” and “D Organics Soap,” lacked a valid License to Operate (LTO) and the necessary business permits to function legally.
Authorities said the arrested individual was presented for inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act No. 9711 (Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009) and Republic Act No. 7394 (Consumer Act of the Philippines), both in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Meanwhile, the NBI and FDA emphasize that these unregistered products have not undergone mandatory quality and safety testing.
“Because cosmetics are classified as health products, using unauthorized substances poses a significant risk of chemical burns, infections, and long-term health complications,” it explained.