3 FIRMS REPRIMANDED: DTI Warns Against Substandard Christmas Lights

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – A Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) official has urged the public to avoid buying substandard Christmas lights this holiday season to prevent potential fire hazards.

DTI Chief Trade-Industry Development Specialist Engiemar Tupas emphasized the importance of ensuring that Christmas lights meet Philippine safety standards.

“The purchase of Christmas lights should comply with Philippine standards,” Tupas told reporters during a DTI media forum held at the DTI office on Friday.

Tupas, joined by Senior Trade-Industry Development Specialists Kenneth Villarosa and Reginald Hudierez, addressed questions on price monitoring and other related issues during the forum.

“Do not buy substandard Christmas lights as they pose a danger to lives. Fires can be avoided if we purchase certified and safe products,” Tupas warned.

He added that Christmas lights should have proper markings. “If they don’t, it means they have not passed Philippine standards,” he explained.

Tupas said that during a recent inspection of seven establishments in the downtown area, three were found selling substandard Christmas lights.

The erring establishments were reprimanded and instructed to remove the items from their shelves.

“If, upon further monitoring, these products are still being sold, we will issue a notice of violation to these erring business establishments,” Tupas said.

He also reminded businesses to immediately pull out substandard Christmas lights to avoid penalties.

Violators will face fines in accordance with DTI regulations, Tupas added.

On a separate note, Tupas advised consumers to check brands when buying Noche Buena items and to support local producers.

“Let us support them by buying their products,” he said.

Regarding price increases on Noche Buena products, Tupas noted that ham experienced the largest price hike, ranging from PHP 1 to PHP 30 depending on the brand.

“Always check the brands, and we encourage the public to support local producers,” he added.