Safe toys for small boys

Q. Tricia Flores of Mandaluyong writes: "I am a young mother for four active boys. Their ages range from two to seven years old. I would like them to enjoy each other’s company and also learn to share with one another.

"One way I do that is to buy toys that they can all play with. However, I have a hard time because, just as a matter of common sense, I think some toys for young kids are definitely not safe for toddlers.

"Can you share tips with me on what to watch out for so that the toys I buy for my boys are safe?"

A Do not buy toys with sharp edges and parts that may be swallowed by children, especially since you have a two year old. Also, do not ever give your kids toys that are flammable.

The DTI-Bureau of Product Standards has set quality and safety standards for locally manufactured toys. These standards are not mandatory and has, therefore, not been followed strictly.

We encourage toy manufacturers to adopt these standards as they will enhance the quality of their products, increase their international competitiveness, and promote social responsibility.

Parents and consumer groups are also encouraged to advocate the standardization of safety and quality standards.

When buying imported toys, look for the following markings on their boxes or packages:

* CE Mark–a European safety and quality standard mark;

* Age Rating–indicates the age of a child that the manufacturer feels can use the toy safely;

* Warnings–safety guidelines to be followed;

* Lion mark–a mark carried by members of the British Toy and Hobby Association to show that they have met all current safety standards

For inquiries, please call the Bureau of Product Standards at 890-5226.

Q. Marilou Edrosa of Parang, Marikina writes: "I bought a t-shirt at a department store. When I was about to pay, the cashier saw two price tags on the shirt. She told me that they just forgot to remove the price tag with the lower value and then proceeded to punch the higher price.

"Since I didn’t want to argue, I paid and left.

"Given that the damage has been done, so to speak, I just want to find out if she’s correct. Have I been duped?

A. Unfortunately, you have been had. In case of discrepancies, the lower price value should prevail over the higher one.

Our Price Tag Law (Republic Act 7394) states that all consumer products sold in retail should bear the appropriate price tag. These tags should be clearly written, with the price of the commodity in pesos and centavos.

Erasures on price tags are also not allowed, except in price reduction sales promotion campaigns.

First time violators of the Price Tag Law are subject to a fine of up to P5,000 and/or a maximum of six months imprisonment. A second conviction necessitates the revocation of the business permit and license.

(You may send your consumer complaints and comments to the Bureau of Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection, DTI-Domestic Bldg., 361 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City. You may also call us at our consumer hotlines 896-5740 or 890-4938. Our e-mail address is www.e-reklamo.net.ph)