DTI reinforces partnerships with industry agencies

With a shared interest in advocating consumer protection, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reinforced its partnerships with industry associations and private sector organizations through meetings with the Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI), Philippine E-cigarette Industry Association (PECIA), Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP), and BAN Toxics NGO.

The DTI, through the Consumer Protection Group (CPG), enforces compliance with the different Trade and Industry Laws, such as the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the Price Act, the Law on Products Standards, and the Vape Regulation Law.

In line with its mandate, the DTI sought a series of meetings with various government agencies with consumer protection mandates, as well as law enforcement agencies, to heighten monitoring and strategic enforcement.

Commending its continuing efforts to promote certified iron and steel products, the DTI met with PISI on January 4 and discussed future collaborations.

On February 27, the DTI also connected with the consumer advocacy group BAN Toxics, in response to its call for the Department to ban online merchants from selling hazardous products after monitoring the selling of toxic skin-lightening products on several e-commerce platforms.

Similarly, the DTI sought the audience of CeMAP on March 5 following news reports of its concerns over the possible selling of imported cement products that may have bypassed government inspection on compliance with standards before being sold to the market.

Meanwhile, a meeting with the PECIA on March 13 explored plans for targeted joint campaigns against uncertified and illegal vape products.

“We recognize the efforts of the CPG and these industry agencies in collaborating towards safeguarding consumer rights and welfare. Let us all work collectively to remove uncertified and illegal products in the market,” DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said.

Secretary Pascual also underscored the Department’s aim for enhanced collaborative campaigns against non-conforming, illegal, and substandard products, stating “multisectoral partnerships with industry associations and non-governmental organizations are crucial because the implementation of industry and fair trade laws cannot operate in a vacuum.” The DTI urges the public to report retailers and merchandisers selling prohibited goods and uncertified items through One-DTI (1-384) or ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph.