Question & AnswerQ&A (DTI DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 10-04)
The Order applies to all issuers, distributors, and sellers of gift certificates, checks, or cards, referred to as suppliers.
It is an instrument issued by a supplier to an individual, partnership, or juridical entity for monetary consideration evidencing a promise by the issuer that consumer goods or services will be exchanged in favor of the bearer upon presentation.
No, gift certificates/checks/cards distributed under an award, loyalty or promotional program are not covered by this Order.
Commencing July 1, 2012, it is prohibited for any supplier to issue or sell gift certificates/checks/cards that contain expiry dates.
They shall be redeemable until used up by the bearer, meaning there is no expiry date limiting their redemption.
Suppliers may refuse to honor the certificates if the card is lost due to no fault of the supplier or if the card is mutilated or defaced preventing identification of security/authenticity features.
Yes, such programs and policies apply likewise to purchases paid for with gift certificates/checks/cards.
Complaints are subject to the provisions of Republic Act No. 7394 (Consumer Act of the Philippines) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations.
The Order took effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in two newspapers of general circulation.
The validity of other provisions shall not be affected; the rest of the Order remains effective (Separability Clause).
Suppliers may refuse to honor such certificates if the loss or damage prevents verification of security and authenticity.