DTI sues 9 QC firms selling car supplies, lighters without PS mark

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is filing formal charges against nine establishments in Quezon City for allegedly selling automotive batteries, tires and lighters without the required markings and labels.

In a statement, the DTI reported that it confiscated over 100 pieces of lead-acid automotive batteries and pneumatic tires worth P552,762 from Mercury Battery Industries Inc.; Four L’s Corp.; Tyrepro Banawe Inc.; Jawe Marketing; Kar Motion Tires, Batteries and Accessories; MJM Auto Care Center; LP Herrera Tire Supply and Trade.com.ph.

According to the agency, the car batteries and tires being sold at these establishments did not have the Philippine Standard (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) mark and other required labels.

At the same time, the DTI also confiscated from Ever Plus Store Inc. 145 pieces of disposable lighters without the PS or ICC mark.

“The DTI regulates consumer products for their reliability and safety.  When attested that these products have passed the requirements of the Philippine National Standards such as the required markings and labels on the product or product package, then we assure consumers that these products meet the standards and are safe to use,” Trade Undersecretary Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba said.

The DTI enforcement teams inspected 70 auto supply companies in Metro Manila from June 28 to July 4.

The other chemical and consumer products regulated by the agency include brake fluid, safety belt (seat belt), safety glass for automotive use, pneumatic tire, fire extinguisher, fireworks, lead-acid battery, disposable lighter, safety match, liquefied petroleum gas cylinder for household and automotive uses, inner tubes for tires, motorcycle helmet and their visors, medical grade oxygen, and, monobloc chairs and stools.