‘UKAY-UKAY PA MORE’

BARGAIN-hunting Ilonggos love ukay-ukay. The continued flourishing of many of ukay-ukay outlets in Iloilo City is proof of this despite Republic Act 4635 that prohibits the commercial importation of textile articles commonly known as “used clothing”.

It’s a sign of the hard times. Barato ang ukay-ukay, therefore swak sa budget. And if a shopper has patience digging piles of ukay-ukay, he/she may find good quality and branded items.

Actually, ukay-ukay started in the early 1980s in Baguio City. Due to the frequency of natural calamities in the country, the Salvation Army distributed imported secondhand goods to victims of calamities as a form of humanitarian assistance.

The said goods were accumulated and bought in bulk by local traders to sell to the public at a cheaper price. The initial customers were low-income population, but due to the popularity and low prices, high-income earners also started to patronize it.

Now, a bill has been filed in the Senate seeking to legalize and regulate ukay-ukay or the importation of second-hand clothes, bags, shoes and accessories, among others.

Indeed, RA 4635 which was enacted in 1966 has been ineffective. Ukayukay stores mushroom all over the country, and have now become part of the Filipino culture.

By legalizing ukay-ukay, this P18-bilion industry will no longer be an underground enterprise since it will be duly registered and its revenues audited for accountability by the proper government agencies.

And most important, public health will be protected. Under the proposed measure, the Department of Health shall determine the health standards and prerequisites for importing and distributing used textile articles.

Himal-i naton kun diin pa halin ining mga ukay-ukay goods; how clean they are; and if they are free from bacteria and viruses.

Say mo, Doc Quiñon?