Buy safe, certified products, NCRPO urges public

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Tuesday urged the public to be vigilant and responsible when purchasing products as the holiday shopping season approaches.

The reminder follows a warning from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) against uncertified and potentially unsafe products being sold in physical stores and online marketplaces.

According to NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, public safety extends beyond crime prevention to protecting families from the risks posed by substandard, counterfeit, and improperly certified products.

“As we prepare for the holiday season, we must be smart and discerning when shopping. Let us prioritize safety and responsible purchasing to avoid falling victim to scams and counterfeit products,” Abrahano said.

The NCRPO chief also reminded consumers to look for the Philippine Standard (PS) Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker on products subject to mandatory certification. Buyers should likewise check product labels, manufacturer or importer information, warranties, and safety instructions before completing a purchase.

With shopping activity expected to increase, the NCRPO advised the public to verify the legitimacy of online sellers, carefully read product descriptions, and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. Consumers were also encouraged to keep receipts and digital transaction records, which may serve as evidence in complaints or investigations when necessary.

“We urge everyone to report any suspected illegal activities and the sale of potentially hazardous or counterfeit products to the proper authorities for further investigation,” Abrahano added.

The NCRPO also called on business owners and retailers to uphold consumer protection standards, ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations, and refrain from selling prohibited products or those that fail to meet established standards.