P72M worth of fake hygiene products seized in Bulacan

A team from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized P72 million worth of counterfeit products in Bulacan.

In John Consulta’s exclusive report on 24 Oras on Thursday, an NBI team discovered several equipment used in making fake shampoos, soaps, and colognes inside a warehouse in the town of Bustos.

In the neighboring municipality of Marilao, authorities raided another warehouse housing fake hygiene products.

According to the NBI, these fake products are sold in small establishments and online shops.

Authorities warned of the risks people face if they purchase these fake products.

“Bukod sa ito’y violation ng proprietary right, nung mayari nitong mga shampoo, sabon, pabango. Ito’y pinapangalagaan namin itong public health. This can cause irritation. Prolonged use can cause skin disorder,” said NBI National Capital Region Director Ferdinand Lavin.

(Aside from violating the propriety right, these fake hygiene products pose health risks. These can cause irritation. Prolonged use can cause skin disorders.)

The confiscated products will be destroyed while the owners of the establishments are facing unfair competition complaints and for violating the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.

“Mag-ingat tayo sa mga binibili natin. Doon tayo sa regular stores, kasi ang distribution line nitong mga namemeke ay doon sa medyo maliit na retail establishments, yung hindi registered lalo na in the far-flung areas,” Lavin said.

(Be cautious in what we buy. Only purchase from regular stores because the distribution line of these fake products is in small retail establishments. These are unregistered, especially in far-flung areas.)
—Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News