Philippine trade authorities seized P25.3 million worth of non-compliant household appliances during an enforcement operation in Malabon City on Dec. 15, 2025, as part of a nationwide campaign to protect consumers during the holiday season.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) confiscated 14,704 items, including electric rice cookers, fans, ovens, juicers and kettles.
The operation followed a DTI online test-buy that identified the products as potentially hazardous, according to a statement released by the agency.
A subsequent onsite inspection confirmed the items lacked mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) marks, Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers and proper manufacturer labeling. The DTI issued a notice of violation for breaching safety regulations immediately following the discovery.
DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the crackdown underscores the government’s resolve to hold sellers accountable for violations of product safety standards, following a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to safeguard consumers.
“The holiday season is a time when families make purchases for their homes and buy gifts for loved ones. They deserve the peace of mind that comes with safe and reliable products,” Roque said.
She said the DTI is intensifying nationwide inspections to keep uncertified appliances out of the market.
The Malabon operation is part of the E-Kalasag program, which the DTI has implemented since April 2024 to strengthen market surveillance and ensure compliance with technical regulations.
