The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced that it has confiscated nearly P48 million worth of substandard and counterfeit products during a series of enforcement operations in Pampanga. The crackdown targeted defective construction materials and uncertified goods to protect consumers and ensure public safety.
Seizure of Uncertified Steel Products
The DTI reported that a total of 186,329 pieces of uncertified steel products, valued at P21.9 million, were seized. These items included equal leg steel angle bars and deformed steel bars that lacked the required Philippine Standard (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) markings. Additionally, the products did not have proper labeling, such as the manufacturer’s name and address.
Joint Operations with Law Enforcement
In a joint operation with the National Bureau of Investigation – Special Action Unit, authorities confiscated approximately P1.1 million worth of uncertified LED lamps and electric fans. Another P25 million worth of counterfeit goods were seized in a separate operation conducted with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, due to violations of minimum labeling requirements.
Enforcement and Penalties
The DTI issued Notices of Violation against hardware stores found selling uncertified products. The DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau emphasized that operations will continue to protect consumers and ensure fair competition in the market. The government remains committed to removing defective construction materials from the market to safeguard public welfare.
