As faulty electrical wiring remains the leading cause of fire incidents in homes and commercial spaces, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has reiterated its call for consumers to buy only certified electrical and electronic products. The warning comes in observance of National Electrical Safety Month this May.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), 625 of the 2,307 fire incidents recorded between 1 January and 27 February 2025 were linked to electrical issues. This trend mirrors last year’s figures, where 1,181 fire cases were attributed to similar causes.

“In observance of National Electrical Safety Month this May, we urge the public and industry stakeholders to prioritize safety across the entire electrical and electronic goods. This includes responsible manufacturing, stringent quality control during importation, and diligent retail practices to ensure paramount safety for every consumer purchase,” said DTI Secretary Cristina Roque.

The DTI has intensified efforts to protect public safety through strict enforcement of the Consumer Act of the Philippines (RA 7394), the Price Act (RA 7581 as amended by RA 10623), and the Product Standards Law (RA 4109).

Since 2023, these enforcement actions have led to the seizure of P134.4 million worth of uncertified and potentially hazardous electrical and electronic products. A total of 382,290 units, including lighting equipment, wiring cables, devices, consumer electronics, and household appliances, were confiscated for lacking the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) Quality or Safety Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers.

Proclaimed under Presidential Proclamation No. 193 in 2011, National Electrical Safety Month aims to raise public awareness of electrical safety practices and prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage due to electrical hazards.

The DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) continues to develop and implement safety standards for electrical products. Supporting this mandate, the Fair-Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) conducts regular inspections and seizes uncertified items that pose fire or safety risks.

“This initiative reflects our enduring commitment to Filipinos from risks associated with unregulated and non-compliant products. The DTI, in partnership with informed consumers, responsible businesses, and proactive industries, advocates for quality and safety in the market,” said DTI Fair Trade Group Supervising Head and Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro Uvero.