QuestionsQuestions (DTI DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 01, S. 2008)
It is issued pursuant to the Consumer Act of the Philippines (R.A. No. 7394) to update and tighten implementing rules on consumer product labeling and fair packaging, including requirements on proper description, translations, and product information.
It relates to Chapter IV (Labeling and Fair Packaging) of R.A. No. 7394 and the earlier DTI Department Administrative Order No. 2, series of 1993 (Implementing Rules and Regulations for Chapter IV).
It applies to all consumer products, whether locally manufactured or imported, sold in the Philippines and falling under the jurisdiction of the DTI as contemplated by R.A. No. 7384 (as stated in the text).
Yes. Labels or packaging must include a parallel translation in English or Filipino of the nature, quality, quantity, and other relevant information or instructions, in a manner that cannot be easily removed, detached, or erased under ordinary handling.
No. Stickers and other similar removable labels are not allowed, except for those specifically required by other applicable rules and regulations.
Consumer products must indicate and specify: (a) country of manufacture; (b) required information on consumption duration safety (e.g., “good until December 2008”); (c) manufacturer’s warranty; (d) weight/content prior to packaging; (e) consumer complaint desk address; and (f) other information that fits the consumer’s right to information.
Yes. Section 1 and Section 3 explicitly apply to products sold in the Philippines whether manufactured locally or imported.
DTI, with a DTI-accredited nationwide consumers organization, must exchange information with BOC to ensure compliance. BOC must ensure labeling requirements are complied with prior to release of imported products.
Any previous order inconsistent with the DAO is repealed or amended accordingly, meaning conflicting prior DTI issuances are superseded to the extent of inconsistency.
Violations are dealt with in accordance with R.A. No. 7394 and its implementing rules, including impounding and quarantine of goods and repatriation of shipments to the country of origin with cost borne by the importer.
A transitory period of at least six (6) months from the effectivity of the DAO.
It must be published in two (2) newspapers of general circulation and takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication.
It provides that if any provision is declared unconstitutional, the validity of the other provisions is not affected.
To justify that compulsory labeling and fair packaging are consistent with the Philippines’ obligation on national treatment in internal regulation/taxation (as stated in the recitals).
The State aims to protect consumers’ interests and promote general welfare, including protection against hazards and deceptive practices. Compulsory labeling ensures consumers can obtain accurate information to compare product value and make informed choices.
It would constitute a violation of the labeling requirements; enforcement may include impounding/quarantine and possible repatriation of the shipment, with costs borne by the importer, pursuant to the Consumer Act and implementing rules.