DTI intensifies standard checks on mandatory products

Following the launch of Project Execution Team (PET), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has intensified its enforcement activities on compliance with product standards and fair trade laws, resulting in the issuance of notices of violation (Nov) to 72 firms in Luzon.

DTI’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) recently conducted special enforcement activities on fair trade laws particularly on products under DTI's mandatory certification schemes in Metro Manila (MM), Region 1 and Region 4A for the months of August to September. Other regions will also be covered.

As of September 6, 2017, a total of 1,203 firms (867 in Region 4A, 177 in Region 1, and 159 in Metro Manila) were monitored particularly on fair trade laws such as Republic Act No. 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, RA 4109 or the Product Standards Law, and Presidential Decree No. 1572 or the Accreditation Law.

Of 1,203 firms monitored, 72 firms were issued with Notices of Violation (NOVs) for alleged violation of the provisions of Department Administrative Order (DAO) 2 series of 2007, the products lack the required markings, which means it did not undergo the testing required by the government to attest for safety of its use.

These firms were given within 48 hours to respond to the NOV before the nearest DTI office in their area. A formal charge shall be filed against erring establishments.

DTI-FTEB Officer-inCharge, Ferdinand L. Manfoste said that 7,033 products with violations were withdrawn and sealed with an estimated value of at least half a million pesos.

On monitored steel bars and Portland cement, products at the point of sale were found compliant with the requirements of DAO 2:2007. Thus, to ensure compliance with the provisions of DAO No. 2:2007, Defining the Responsibilities and Liabilities of the Manufacturers, Importers and Traders, DTI will still continue with its monitoring activities nationwide to further safeguard the life, safety and health of the public against unscrupulous business practices.