DTI-6 updates staff on current list of products under mandatory certification

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Region 6 Regional Director Rebecca Rascon explained the importance of knowing the updated list of products under mandatory certification in advancing DTI’s consumer protection advocacies.

Rascon led the opening ceremony of the 2-day Orientation on Updated List of Products Under Mandatory Certification on September 1, 2022 at District 21 Hotel Annex, Atria Park District, Iloilo City.

The activity was organized by the Consumer Protection Division (CPD) of the DTI 6 Regional Office in coordination with the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) to orient the CPD staff from the regional and provincial offices on the updates for effective monitoring of mandatory products.

With the implementation of the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) verification system, product certification of various building and construction, electrical and electronic, chemical and other consumer products are mandatory.

Selling these products in the Philippine market without the necessary Philippine Standard Quality certification mark license or ICC are prohibited.

These marks are the assurance given to the consumers that the products passed quality standards and are safe to use.

Any retailer or wholesaler found selling uncertified products will be seized and fined, without prejudice to the filing of criminal or civil proceedings under applicable laws.

To ensure that only inspected and approved products are found in the market, monitoring activities will be performed by the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices.

As consumers, especially as monitoring officers, one must be aware of the most recent regulations in place to instill standards and quality in Philippine products.

DTI reminds consumers to always look for the PS mark or ICC sticker when buying products covered under the mandatory certification and to report stores selling covered products without the said required markings.

The verification of ICC stickers may be done using the ICC Verification Mobile App

RD Rascon hopes that the activity will help maintain the agency’s commitment to ensure consumers’ safety while balancing the interest of stakeholders.