(Infographic courtesy of DTI-Bicol)
LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry in Bicol (DTI-5) seized some PHP1.8 million worth of uncertified products from January to June this year.
In an interview on Friday, DTI-5 spokesperson Jocelyn Berango said the confiscated products stemmed from intensified enforcement and monitoring activities in six provinces in the region.
DTI data shows that Camarines Sur had PHP716,695 of seized products; Sorsogon had PHP417,602; Camarines Norte (PHP336,233); Albay (PHP193,080); Catanduanes (PHP116,365); and Masbate (PHP28,157).
"We are inspecting to ensure that our business establishments are distributing quality and safe products in the market for the protection of consumers," Berango said.
DTI-5 said at least 68 establishments in the region were issued notices of violation for selling uncertified products and violating the Product Standards Law and other provisions of the Consumer Act of the Philippines.
Albay province has posted 15 violators; Camarines Norte (10), Camarines Sur (11), Catanduanes (8), Masbate (9), and Sorsogon (15).
Berango said the establishments would be summoned to explain, and failure to comply would result in the filing of formal charges and penalties.
Products confiscated include brake fluid, plywood, low-carbon steel wire, uPVC sanitary pipe, Polybutylene pipes for potable water, motorcycle inner tubes, motorcycle batteries, monobloc chairs, electric fans, induction cookers, and electric kettles.
Also seized were hand blenders, hand mixers, electric toasters, extension wires, coffee makers, rice cookers, multi-cookers, motorcycle helmets, monobloc chairs, angle bars, ceramic tiles, flat irons, lighters, electric stoves, and other electrical products. (PNA)
