DTI orders e-commerce platforms to explain cases of fraudulent, deceptive online sales

MAKATI City—On Monday, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual issued a letter addressed to two big e-commerce platforms, ordering them to send an official explanation to the DTI concerning recent cases of deceptive, unfair, fraudulent, and unconscionable online sales practices.

“We received a report regarding scammers and sellers of defective, fake, and pirated products in e-commerce platforms. I have already issued a letter addressed to two big e-commerce platforms for them to remove unregistered and unlicensed online merchants. Following numerous notifications, they were given 72 hours to explain,” Secretary Pascual mentioned.

Further, he added that, “The DTI is currently undertaking appropriate measures to intensify our campaign against these fraudulent sales practices. I assure Filipino consumers that we are here to promote and protect their welfare and make sure that these sellers will be made accountable. As we promote the use of e-commerce platforms, we want to make sure that these spaces will be safe for consumers.”

The report received by the Department indicated that several consumers lodged complaints against various online sellers of fake, defective, or undelivered parcels, which the DTI is currently acting upon.

In view of the prohibition against deceptive, unfair, and unconscionable online sales and practices under Republic Act Nos. 7394 and 8293, and Joint Administrative Order No. 22-01, Series of 2022 or the Guidelines for Online Business Reiterating the Laws and Regulations Applicable to Online Businesses and Consumers, Secretary Pascual issued the letter on Monday, 5 June 2023. Likewise, he urged these e-commerce platforms to immediately address the concerns of consumers who have fallen victim to deceptive sellers.

Meanwhile, the DTI urges consumers to report violators, retailers, distributors, and manufacturers that sell uncertified items through the Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or consumercare@dti.gov.ph.