When buying the original is better and safe

MANILA, Philippines - Counterfeit goods sold in the Philippines are rampant, from DVDs and software to appliances and electrical equipment. They are found and sold in street corner stores, even in commercial establishments. Such items are cheap and varied but they suffer in quality.

Data show that counterfeit goods worldwide total over $500 billion a year. Even medicines are faked, which the World Health Organization estimates at 10% of medicines worldwide.

But what is ‘counterfeit’? The Webster Dictionary defines it as something “not genuine; imitating something superior; a copy that is presented as the original.” It says “to counterfeit is to make a copy with an intent to deceive.”

These days advanced technology has made it possible to counterfeit construction materials, food products, pharmaceuticals, electrical, and incendiary products. These products can pose a threat to health and safety leading to serious, even fatal injuries.

Consumers have to be vigilant and informed on these counterfeit products, especially those that have impact on safety. They should be extra careful when buying products such as medicines, food, and appliances, as well as when choosing incendiary devices such as disposable lighters.

Cricket lighters have been trusted for generations, with over 200 million people worldwide patronizing the brand because it is synonymous to safety and quality. Made from quality fire-resistant materials, Cricket lighters comply with international standards of safety bearing ISO certificates 9994, 9001, and 14001. The lighter body is made from nylon and not plastic. Even if exposed to extreme heat of over 65 degrees Celsius, it will not explode. It is also sturdy enough to withstand high pressure and tall drops.

Cricket lighters also feature an auto-regulated flame. This means that the flame will not go higher than 50 millimeters, making it safe lighting without surprises or burnt eyebrows.

To be sure you are buying the original Cricket lighter and not the imitation, take a good look at the print on the body. If it says Cricket “Lights more, Lasts longer,” then it is a fake Cricket. The genuine Cricket only has a print of “Cricket Original, Mini, Electronic, or Pocket” on the body.

Patronize Product Safety (PS) and ICC-marked products to ensure your safety. You can report or file complaints against substandard products through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) consumer hotline (02) 751 3330, via the i-reklamo website www.i-reklamo.ph, by emailing [email protected], or by visiting the nearest DTI office.