DTI to probe transfer of imported cement

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said yesterday they will conduct an investigation on the alleged unauthorized transfer of imported cement.

DTI said that they have received complaints regarding the alleged unauthorized transfer of imported cement prior to issuance of Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) from the Bureau of Product Standards (DTI-BPS).

“We are verifying if the cement brought into the country passed stringent tests and inspections based on relevant standards and if they have been issued ICC certificate,” Trade Undersecretary for Consumer Welfare Zenaida C. Maglaya said.

According to Maglaya, the DTI is looking into the complaint that imported cement are being transferred from an authorized warehouse to an unauthorized warehouse in Quezon City.

DTI regulates critical construction materials and other products that are covered by mandatory standards not only to protect the interests of businesses but more importantly to safeguard consumers’ welfare.

Through the DTI-BPS Product Certification Scheme, manufacturers and importers are required to have their products tested based on the specific Philippine National Standard (PNS) at the BPS Testing Center or any DTI-accredited or recognized laboratory prior its sale or distribution.

Only those manufacturers and importers whose products comply with the quality and safety requirements of the PNS are issued with the PS License and ICC certificate, respectively.

These manufacturers and importers are then authorized to affix the PS and ICC marks on their products to guide consumers in choosing quality and safe products.