ZAMBOANGA CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Jan. 16, 2013) – Philippine trade officials said dozens of establishments in Western Mindanao were meted fines and penalties for violating the free trade laws last year.
Officials said 94 firms in Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay provinces violated the Philippine Law on Standards last year.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has warned traders follow the law or they risk administrative sanctions. It also called on consumers to be vigilant and urged them to report to appropriate authorities any unethical business practices they may encounter or observe.
DTI Regional Director Nazrullah Manzur said they have jurisdiction over cases involving consumer product quality and safety; deceptive, unfair and unconscionable sales acts and practices; consumer products and service warranties; price tag; mislabelling/fraudulent advertising; service and repair shops; advertising and sales promotion. (Lowell Vallecer)
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