Consumers warned vs substandard Christmas lights

CEBU, Philippines — With the holiday season fast approaching, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Central Visayas and the Department of Energy-Visayas Field Office are reminding consumers to prioritize safety when purchasing Christmas lights and similar decorations in the market.

Both agencies emphasized the need to check for the Philippine Standard markings or the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker on these products before buying to ensure that these are compliant with the safety and quality standards.

DTI-7 Chief of Consumer Protection Division Joy Suralta said that the public should be empowered consumers who are vigilant in buying substandard and/or uncertified products.

“We monitor the quality and compliance to product standards,” said Suralta.

Suralta was also glad to share that retailers have already increased their awareness and are now compliant with the regulations.

“Nalipay pud mi kay medyo aware najud ang retailers so especially on Christmas lights… So far with our enforcement and monitoring, compliant naman jud sila,” she added.

The DTI-7 conducted surprise inspections and so far, only minor issues were found--mostly old stocks.

Suralta said they confiscated the substandard stocks and instructed the retailers to remove old items from their shelves.

In a separate interview, DOE Visayas Field Office Director Renante M. Sevilla pointed out the necessity of verifying the authenticity of ICC marks to prevent the distribution of substandard or counterfeit items.

Sevilla also encouraged households to uphold energy conservation practices during the holidays.

“So we are promoting, simpleng energy conservation measures, putting off the light if walay naggamit these are very simple act that you can do, simply by using your finger,” said Sevilla.

Moreover, DTI-7 also reminded buyers and shoppers to be vigilant enough about pricing discrepancies. Suralta emphasized that under the law, the price listed on the shelf should match the price charged at the cashier.

“Kung naka encounter mo nga ang price sa estante minus kaysa ig adto sa cashier, you have to insist na you pay what is in the price tag not on the register kay mao jud na siya ang balaod,” said Suralta. — (FREEMAN)