AS the holiday shopping season draws near, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), led by Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher N. Abrahano, has issued a public advisory encouraging consumers to exercise vigilance and responsibility when purchasing goods.
The reminder comes on the heels of warnings from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regarding the circulation of uncertified and potentially hazardous products in both physical retail stores and digital e-commerce platforms.
According to PBGen. Abrahano, community safety encompasses more than traditional crime prevention—it also involves shielding families from the physical and financial risks associated with substandard, counterfeit, and improperly certified items.
“As we prepare for the holiday season, we must be smart and discerning when shopping. Let us prioritize safety and responsible purchasing to avoid falling victim to scams and counterfeit products,” Abrahano said.
To ensure consumer safety, the NCRPO chief advised buyers to actively look for the Philippine Standard (PS) Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers on goods that require mandatory certification.
Shoppers should also inspect product labels, verify manufacturer or importer details, review warranties, and read safety guidelines prior to purchase.
With retail activity anticipated to surge, authorities cautioned consumers to vet online sellers carefully, scrutinize product specifications, and remain wary of steep discounts or offers that appear too good to be true.
Buyers are likewise urged to safeguard receipts and digital transaction trails, which are crucial should formal complaints or investigations arise.
“We urge everyone to report any suspected illegal activities and the sale of potentially hazardous or counterfeit products to the proper authorities for further investigation,” Abrahano added.
Additionally, the NCRPO called upon business owners and local retailers to strictly comply with consumer protection regulations, maintain high product standards, and refrain from distributing uncertified or prohibited items.
