In a continued crackdown on uncertified products, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Task Force Kalasag confiscated 9,428 non-compliant items, primarily household appliances, worth P9.3 million during an inspection of two warehouses in Plaridel on July 3, 2024.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with Congressman Erwin Tulfo’s office and the Plaridel Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO), was initiated in response to a consumer complaint.
The first warehouse yielded 656 unbranded and uncertified items, including helmets, visors, electric rice cookers, LED lamps, extension cords, and food mixers, valued at P638,852.
A significantly larger haul came from the second warehouse, where 8,772 non-compliant electric rice cookers, induction cookers, ovens, blenders, washing machines, fans, and multi-cookers worth P8.7 million were seized.
These products lacked the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) Marks and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Stickers, violating Republic Act No. 4109 (Products Standards Law) and Department Administrative Order No. 02, Series of 2007.
“The DTI is unwavering in its commitment to expanding enforcement operations nationwide to ensure no product endangering consumer safety remains on the market,” said DTI secretary Alfredo Pascual.
DTI Fair Trade Group assistant secretary Agaton Teodoro Uvero emphasized the importance of consumer vigilance.
“It is crucial to check for verified quality and safety markings. Untested household appliances pose serious electrical and fire hazards. Consumers should not be lured by low prices that could result in costly or even fatal injuries,” he said.
The establishments have received notices of violation and must provide an explanation within 48 hours. Failure to do so will lead to formal charges and potential penalties.
This operation follows a similar seizure last month in Valenzuela City, where 9,874 non-compliant appliances worth P7.8 million were confiscated. Since its launch in April 2024, Task Force Kalasag has removed a total of 21,829 uncertified household appliances valued at P18.1 million from the market.
The Task Force was established to protect consumers and legitimate businesses, uphold product safety and quality standards, and ensure the availability of essential goods at reasonable prices, particularly during emergencies.