Question & AnswerQ&A (DTI ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 09)
The main policy objective is to protect the interest of consumers, promote their general welfare, and establish standards of conduct for business and industry concerning price tags/labels and the use of shelf pricing with modern technology.
These rules apply to all consumer products offered for retail sale, except those too small or the nature of which makes it impractical to place an individual price tag/label. For these exceptions, a price list or poster must be displayed near the goods.
Establishments must: a) Use itemized receipts or cash register tapes showing description, size, quantity, and individual price of goods purchased; b) Install at least one Price Verification Counter or similar electronic system in each storey of multi-storey establishments.
Price tags must be clearly written, showing the retail price inclusive of VAT and other charges, brand name, description, net quantity in metric system or numerical count, and must be strategically posted above or beneath the shelf with sufficient tags if the shelf covers a wide area.
The price must be at least 8 millimeters high; other labeling information must be at least 4 millimeters high.
In case of discrepancies, the lowest price among the shelf price, the product price tag, or the scanned price shall prevail.
Shelf price may be used provided it is combined with product identification codes that, when scanned, will show the price of the item.
Violations will be dealt with according to the Consumer Act of the Philippines and Executive Order No. 913, which include sanctions applicable under those laws.
Under the Separability Clause, if any provision is declared invalid, other provisions unaffected shall remain in full force and effect.
They took effect fifteen (15) days after their publication in two newspapers of general circulation following their adoption on September 10, 2002.