P44-M illegal appliances seized in Bulacan

Inquirer file photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) seized P44 million worth of uncertified appliances in Bulacan on Tuesday, the biggest single-day haul of questionable consumer products being sold in the local market.

“Retailers and businesses that do not comply with regulatory and safety standards for products are effectively warned. They must deal only with suppliers of legitimate products,” Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said in a statement on Wednesday.

READ: Pascual resigns as trade secretary

He also reminded the public to check the quality of the products before they purchase.

“If applicable, ensure the presence and authenticity of Philippine Standard Marks and Import Commodity Clearance stickers. Consumer vigilance will always be complementary to DTI’s commitment to eliminate substandard and unregulated products from the market,” he added.

The latest seizure brought the year-to-date value of confiscated goods to P118 million, according to the DTI.

Pascual said they would request more funding from Congress to ramp up their campaign and push for higher penalties for importers, distributors and sellers of uncertified products. —Alden M. Monzon