The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) seized more than P200,000 worth of uncertified and substandard Christmas lights in Divisoria, Manila, as part of an intensified nationwide enforcement drive to ensure consumer safety ahead of the holiday season.
The DTI’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) confiscated the items on Nov. 5 from five of 35 establishments inspected.
The confiscated products were found to be lacking the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) markings as well as proper labeling.
The absence of these marks violates Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 02, series of 2007, which requires all manufacturers, distributors, retailers and importers of Christmas lights to secure certification from the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) before selling their products in the market.
The FTEB, which led the crackdown, urged the public to purchase only certified products to mitigate the risk of fire and electrical hazards.
“As we prepare for the holidays, let’s remain vigilant and ensure we do not compromise the safety of our homes and families by purchasing cheap or substandard Christmas lights. Let us be critical and avoid being scammed by cheap deals,” the FTEB said in a statement.
The bureau also warned sellers to strictly observe safety standards and comply with the Philippine National Standards and all relevant requirements to protect consumer welfare and market integrity.
Since early October, the DTI’s E-Kalasag Project has been inspecting physical stores and online platforms nationwide.
This effort has confirmed 72 compliant establishments and led to the recommendation for takedown of 218 violative online listings.
The DTI encouraged both consumers and businesses to remain vigilant and compliant this Christmas season.
