The Department of Trade and Industry in Western Visayas (DTI-6) urged consumers to check product certification marks when buying regulated goods as it gathered stakeholders Wednesday to strengthen consumer protection in the region.
Nerio Gacutan Jr., representing the DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), said buyers should look for the appropriate Philippine Standard (PS) mark or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker on products covered by mandatory certification requirements.
“Since this is a shared responsibility, our manufacturers should ensure their products comply with the Philippine National Standards and applicable technical regulations. For our importers, distributors and retailers, we must also ensure that the products we offer for sale or distribute have certification marks,” Gacutan said.
He clarified that not all products require PS or ICC marks. The BPS covers 113 products under three categories: building and construction materials, electrical and electronic products, and chemicals and other consumer products.
Gacutan also cautioned consumers against counterfeit certification marks and urged them to learn how to verify their authenticity.
The reminders were discussed during ConVerse 2026: DTI VI Consumer Protection Conference, held under the theme “Connecting Voices, Advancing Consumer Protection” as part of the observance of Consumer Welfare Month.
DTI-6 Acting Regional Director Mutya Eusores said the conference aims to promote dialogue, information-sharing and cooperation among stakeholders to address emerging consumer concerns.
“More than a conference, this gathering is a platform for meaningful dialogue, shared learning and collective action. It allows us to listen to one another, understand emerging concerns and work together toward practical solutions that strengthen consumer protection in our region,” Eusores said.
The one-day event also tackled fair trade practices, road safety, business legitimacy, financial consumer protection and digital security.
Discussions covered product standards, mandatory certification, accident prevention, passenger welfare, compliance with transport and traffic regulations, responsible entrepreneurship and measures to prevent fraudulent and deceptive transactions. (PNA)
