The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) said Friday its Task Force Kalasag conducted successful operations in Valenzuela City and across Samar and Leyte, seizing a combined P8.4 million worth of uncertified household appliances and low-carbon steel wires.
A joint operation with ACT-CIS Partylist Rep. Erwin Tulfo and the city’s Business Permit and Licensing Office resulted in the confiscation of nearly 10,000 uncertified household appliances, including induction cookers, electric kettles, electric fans and more in Valenzuela.
The seized products lacked the required Philippine Standard (PS) Marks and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Stickers, violating Republic Act No. 4109 (Products Standards Law) and other regulations.
Meanwhile, a five-day enforcement operation in Samar and Leyte led to the seizure of 314 rolls of non-compliant low-carbon steel wires valued at nearly P600,000.
The products lacked the mandatory PS or ICC markings and relevant manufacturer information, posing potential safety hazards in homes and workplaces.
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual reiterated the agency’s unwavering commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring product safety and quality across various industries.
“These uncertified appliances pose a grave risk to consumers, as their untested components and faulty wiring can lead to electric shocks, fires, injuries, and even fatalities. We will not rest until every uncertified product is removed, ensuring the safety and well-being of every Filipino consumer,” he said.
Both operations resulted in the issuance of notices of violation to the involved establishments, requiring them to provide written explanations within 48 hours. Failure to comply will lead to formal charges and corresponding penalties.
The DTI, through its Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), remains dedicated to enforcing mandatory product certification schemes to safeguard consumers from potential hazards and ensure the consistent quality of standardized products in the market.
The agency encourages consumers to report any uncertified products they encounter to aid in the ongoing fight against substandard goods.