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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider DTI files charges against 18 stores over overpriced face masks

DTI files charges against 18 stores over overpriced face masks

Published Jan 25, 2020 12:00 am
By Bernie Cahiles-Magkilat The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has charged 18 retail establishments for overpricing of face masks following the eruption of Taal Volcano. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez (REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO) Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez
(REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO) DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said DTI proceeded with the filing of charges with penalties of up to P300,000 per store after the establishments failed to give sufficient explanations. Charged were 18 establishment in Bambang, Manila, which were issued Notices of Violation (NOVs) pursuant to the Consumer Act of the Philippines or Republic Act No. 7394. The Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) found these establishments to have overpriced their face masks. FTEB reported that prices of N95 masks jumped from P50 to as high as P180 per piece. Most establishments monitored claim those products were already sold-out due to the increased demand. Lopez warned establishments against taking advantage of the high demand by raising their price excess of the true worth of the said products. For further inquiries, clarifications, and/or complaints, consumers may immediately connect through Consumer Care hotline at 1-DTI (1-384) or may email at [email protected].
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