The Department of Trade and Industry, through the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau, capped uncertified tires for automotive vehicles worth P1,288,938 and issued Notices of Violation to non-compliant firms during enforcement operations in Quezon City on 6 January 2023.

Consumer Protection Group Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo and FTEB OIC Assistant Director Atty. Joseph Manuel P. Pamittan led the DTI enforcement teams in inspecting 17 retail firms in Banawe Avenue, Quezon City.

The focused enforcement of DTI technical regulations led to the seizure of 479 units of uncertified tires for automotive vehicles, with 10 non-compliant firms issued a Notice of Violation, mandating them to submit an explanation within 48 hours from the receipt of the notice.

Castelo underscored that the DTI boosts its enforcement activities to ensure that tires for automotive vehicles conform to PNS 25:1994 or the Philippine National Standard for pneumatic tires.

“The DTI is stepping up enforcement operations against uncertified tires for automotive vehicles as they are a pivotal part of cars. Safeguarding the quality of tires that proliferate in the market upholds road safety and protects car owners and passengers,” said Castelo.

Apart from its rigorous enforcement of technical regulations in the National Capital Region, the DTI-FTEB also conducts simultaneous operations in other regions to expand its work on consumer protection and education.

The nationwide campaign of the DTI against uncertified items in the market underscores the enforcement of DTI technical regulations mandating compliance with Philippine Standard Certification Mark Schemes, particularly Department Administrative Order No. 02, Series of 2007.

To protect consumers or potential buyers of electrical and electronic products; mechanical or building and construction materials; and chemical and other consumer products and systems, the DTI – Bureau of Philippine Standards cover products and systems through implementing Mandatory Product Certification Schemes: the Philippine Standard Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark Licensing Scheme, and the Import Commodity Clearance Certification Scheme.

The DTI urges consumers to report retailers, distributors, and manufacturers that sell uncertified items through the Consumer Care Hotline at DTI (1-384) or [email protected]