Ilocos norte: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Ilocos Norte recently destroyed several substandard and uncertified products as part of its efforts to ensure consumer safety and protection.

According to Philippines News Agency, the products destroyed during a ceremonial activity in front of the Provincial Engineering Office in this city included unbranded steel wires, Christmas lights, lighters, and inner tubes that did not have government certification. DTI provincial director Amelia Galvez stated in a media interview that these products were uncertified, meaning they did not undergo the proper process of certification.

The destroyed items, collected from 2023 to 2025, had an estimated value of more than PHP120,000. Galvez emphasized that through this destruction, the DTI is expressing its commitment to protecting consumers and showing seriousness in the fight against substandard products being sold in the market.

The ceremonial activity was part of the 2025 Consumer Welfare Month celebration and was witnessed by Laoag City officials and a representative from the Commission on Audit. It was also part of the DTI Fair Trade Group's sustained enforcement campaign, which includes unannounced factory audits of steel bar manufacturers and expanded inspections of hardware stores and retail outlets across the country.

The department reminded consumers to stay vigilant when buying materials and other regulated goods, warning that uncertified items might look identical to compliant ones but fail to meet safety and performance requirements. Additionally, the DTI emphasized its commitment to responsible disposal through sustainable waste management practices, aligning consumer protection with environmental responsibility.