DTI task force seizes P25.4 million in uncertified, substandard appliances

The Department of Trade and Industry's Task Force Kalasag seized about P25.4 million worth of uncertified home appliances and consumer goods in three separate raids in Valenzuela  City, Bulacan, and Cavite.

In a news release, the DTI said the recent raids, conducted in collaboration with local government units and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), were initiated in response to consumer complaints and online monitoring.

In particular, the raid at a Valenzuela City warehouse last June 26  resulted in the seizure of 9,874 non-compliant appliances worth around  P7.8 million.

The operation also resulted in the closure of the establishment as it was operating without a valid business permit.

Similar Task Force Kalasag operations in Bulacan's Plaridel town, which targeted two warehouses, resulted in 9,428 non-compliant appliances valued at over P9.3 million being confiscated.

Moreover, the DTI-led task force seized 14,072 uncertified appliances worth over P8.2 million at an establishment in Tanza, Cavite.

The establishment was immediately shut down by the Tanza Municipality.

The DTI said the seized products violated Republic Act (RA) No. 4109 or the Products Standards Law and Department Administrative Order  No. 02: 2007, as they did not bear the required Philippine Standard  Marks and Import Commodity Clearance Stickers.

The products also violated RA 7394 or the Consumer  Act of the Philippines, specifically concerning deceptive sales practices.

“The DTI lauds the Task Force Kalasag’s recent successes, with three separate raids across Valenzuela City, Bulacan,  and Cavite intercepting millions in uncertified home appliances and consumer goods. These operations demonstrate the effectiveness of our collaborative efforts in combating illicit trade and protecting consumers,” said Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual.

“Our enforcement operations are not meant to hinder business, but to ensure a fair and safe marketplace for both consumers and retailers. I urge all retailers to make a conscious choice to prioritize high-quality and certified products. Do not fall victim to the allure of cheap and uncertified goods, as these often come with hidden costs and risks,”  said Pascual.

The Trade chief called on consumers to be vigilant and discerning in buying appliances and other products while also urging the public to support retailers who offer certified products.

Since its inception in April 2024, the DTI said its Task Force Kalasag seized 311,206 units of uncertified products, including a significant number of vape units, valued at a total of P89.7 million.

The Task Force Kalasag is a specialized unit within the DTI tasked with intensifying the Department's monitoring, surveillance, enforcement,  prosecution, and adjudication activities related to trade and industry laws, rules, and regulations.

The task force is also responsible for conducting rapid response actions during calamities, disasters, and public emergencies. — DVM, GMA Integrated News