Antique: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Antique province has intensified its advocacy of products under mandatory certification to ensure consumer safety and quality compliance by establishments. Arnel Oliveros, DTI Antique Provincial Office Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist (STIDS), highlighted the ongoing face-to-face sessions with owners and managers of establishments selling regulated products such as electric fans, rice cookers, television sets, and steel products.
According to Philippines News Agency, Oliveros emphasized the importance of these advocacy sessions in informing owners or representatives of hardware and construction supply, electrical and wiring device outlets, home appliances, and other firms engaged in the sale of regulated consumer products. The sessions aim to raise awareness about the products under mandatory certification, which include both locally manufactured and imported items requiring standardization and certification by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS).
Oliveros noted the shift to face-to-face engagements with establishments located in areas with weak internet connection, starting with the municipality of Culasi on April 29, 2025. Approximately 19 owners and managers of establishments attended the initial session. He also mentioned plans to continue these advocacy efforts next month, in coordination with the Negosyo Center Counselors, targeting the central and southern parts of the province.
During the sessions, discussions focused on the importance of understanding products under mandatory certification and the process of verifying the authenticity of the Import Commodity Clearance and the Philippine Standard marks. Without these marks, products will not be distributed or sold in the market.