UNCERTIFIED PRODUCTS. The Department of Trade and Industry Task Force Kalasag conducts a seizure operation against OOKAS PH in Valenzuela City on June 26, 2024. The warehouse stored PHP7.8 million worth of uncertified home appliances. (Photo courtesy of FTEB)
MANILA – The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Task Force Kalasag served a closure order Friday to OOKAS PH, a warehouse in Paso de Blas, Valenzuela City with PHP7.8 million worth of uncertified home appliances.
Together with the Valenzuela Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO), the DTI shut down the operation of the warehouse following an operation on June 26, when they seized 9,874 appliances, including induction cookers, electric kettles, electric fans, rice cookers, food processors, blenders and washing machines.
The DTI said OOKAS PH violated Republic Act (RA) 4109 or the Products Standards Law and Department Administrative Order 02 as the home appliances in its storage facility do not have the proper markings such as the required Philippine Standard marks and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers.
“The DTI is unwavering in its mission to relentlessly pursue and eliminate all uncertified products from the market, including household appliances that have not undergone the mandatory DTI certification process,” DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said.
“These uncertified appliances pose a grave risk to consumers, as their untested components and faulty wiring can lead to electric shocks, fires, injuries, and even fatalities. We will not rest until every uncertified product is removed, ensuring the safety and well-being of every Filipino consumer,” Pascual added.
Since the Task Force Kalasag was created in April 2024, it has confiscated a total of 12,401 non-compliant household appliances worth PHP8.76 million, which is on top of other consumer goods.
“Certified markings indicate that the products conform to the Philippine National Standards, ensuring certified quality and safety. Consumers can also verify a product's certification through the ICC Verification System mobile app,” DTI Fair Trade Group Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro Uvero said.
“The DTI urges consumers to take an active role in safeguarding their homes and families by diligently verifying product certifications when purchasing household appliances,” he added.
To report any retailers, distributors, or manufacturers selling uncertified items, the DTI may reached through its Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or by emailing consumercare@dti.gov.ph. (PNA)
