DTI warns consumers anew against buying substandard, unregistered products

MANILA – With tons of products now sold online, Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque on reminded consumers to remain discerning in the things they buy and ensure that these pass proper certification. 

In her speech during the Certified Products Expo 2026 at SM Megatrade Hall in Mandaluyong City, Roque underscored the government’s bid to protect consumers through the Consumer Protection Group of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“We need to make sure that the products that are sold in the market get passed through the standards of DTI,” she said, noting the need to protect not only the sellers but also the consumers. 

She advised consumers to look for the Philippine Standard (PS) Mark and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers on the items they buy to ensure that the products  passed the necessary tests. 

“When a product carries the PS mark, the ICC sticker, and the proper FDA (Food and Drug Administration) authorization, it tells the public this product went through the right and rigorous process. More than that, it signals that the broader market, that our responsible businesses are fully equipped and can compete and win whether locally or globally,” she said. 

In a media interview, Roque said consumers must always check for the proper marks on the items they buy, such as Christmas decor and gift items, since unregistered products are hazardous.

“Every year there's always a situation that happens, but it's definitely less now. So, we need to make sure that the consumers are aware,” she added. (PNA)