LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry in Bicol (DTI-5) has confiscated almost PHP3.5 million worth of uncertified products from January to June this year.
In an interview on Monday, Jocelyn Berango, DTI-Bicol spokesperson, said that a notice of violation was issued to 43 of the 103 establishments after monitoring violations of safety and quality policies.
“These firms were found to be selling uncertified products, which do not have the required Product Standard (PS) and Imported Commodity Clearance (ICC) marks or stickers, thereby violating Republic Act (RA) 4109 or the Product Standards Law,” Berango said
She said the inspection is part of DTI’s program to ensure consumers’ safety and well-being in terms of buying products.
Berango confirmed that the 43 establishments are from Masbate with three; Catanduanes-nine; Camarines Sur-seven; Albay-seven; Sorsogon-10 and Camarines Norte-seven.
The products inspected included brake fluid, CFL bulb, corrugated G.I. sheet, monoblock chairs, sanitary wares, ceramic tiles, electric kettle, rice cooker, UPVC pipes, electrical tapes, electric wires, extension cords, socket outlet, and switch, among others.
DTI Bicol advised the public to be discriminating when buying goods and commodities in order to get the best value for their money. I Connie Calipay