MANILA, Philippines?Trade Secretary Peter B. Favila has warned the public about ?bogus? government inspectors out to extort money in the guise of checking a company?s products.
?We at the Department of Trade and Industry would like to reiterate a warning to the public, especially those engaged in business, that although DTI has monitoring and enforcement teams who make sure consumers are protected and businesses comply with the law, these teams do not request money or are in any way authorized to bargain in exchange of violations,? Favila said in a statement.
The DTI-National Capital Region office had received reports of monitoring and enforcement teams going around inspecting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) dealerships.
Complainants said a man calling himself George Canniero would introduce himself as the team leader and offer not to confiscate the ?violative goods? in exchange for P10,000, according to the DTI.
?It is unfortunate this bogus team managed to extort P10,000 from one LPG retailer,? Favila said.
He said that under Department Order 48 or the DTI?s General Enforcement Guidelines, ?mediation and alternative dispute resolution do not apply during monitoring and enforcement activities, therefore, the enforcement team and alleged violator are not allowed to negotiate.?
He said violations are not subject to any form of bargaining or settlement.
?If there is a finding that goods or products or the business itself do not conform to the requirements of a relevant trade and industry law such as the Consumer Act, a notice of violation shall be prepared and signed by the head of the enforcement team and have it signed and received by a representative of the establishment,? Favila said.
He said that in the case of injurious, dangerous and unsafe products, a seizure order shall be issued immediately in accordance with the Consumer Act.
?Government officials and employees should not request or take money, gifts or favors, especially from clients. This is illegal and a violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which is grounds for the filing of administrative and criminal charges,? he said.
The identity of an inspector may be confirmed by calling the DTI at 7513330, Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or Favila himself at 0917-8063473, he said.
