DTI Demands Removal of Illegal Listings in Seven Days
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has issued a firm directive to e-commerce platforms, ordering them to remove illegal product listings within seven days. This move aims to protect consumers and curb the spread of unauthorized vape products. Officials reported that failure to comply will result in sanctions, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
During a recent briefing, the officer-in-charge of the DTI E-Commerce Bureau, Director Eryl Royce Nagtalon, stressed that the removal of illegal listings is crucial to enforcing existing laws and safeguarding public health. “Monitoring is ongoing, and should they fail to comply, the DTI is prepared to pursue legal remedies under the Consumer Act, the Internet Transactions Act, and other applicable industry laws,” Nagtalon explained.
Widespread Vape Listings Raise Concern
According to officials overseeing compliance, the problem of illegal vape product sales has escalated significantly. The DTI E-Commerce and Compliance Division chief, Atty. Frediswenda Benas, revealed that approximately 92,000 vape product listings have been monitored over the last two years. Many of these listings were either removed from online platforms or seized during physical inspections.
Community members noted that the proliferation of these products online poses a serious challenge to regulation, prompting the agency to intensify its efforts. Platforms have been formally reminded of the seven-day deadline to remove such listings, with spot checks being conducted regularly by monitoring teams.
Legal Consequences and Platform Liability
Nagtalon further highlighted that digital platforms may face “solidary liability” if they permit merchants to sell illegal vape products through their sites. Under Republic Act No. 11967, known as the Internet Transactions Act (ITA), non-compliant platforms risk administrative fines, blacklisting, or takedown orders.
Local leaders emphasized that the DTI is coordinating closely with the Department of Health and the Bureau of Internal Revenue. This collaboration aims to strengthen enforcement measures and reduce the circulation of unregulated vape products nationwide.
In summary, the DTI’s strict enforcement on e-commerce platforms to remove illegal listings within seven days marks a significant step in consumer protection and public health advocacy. Continued vigilance and cooperation among agencies and platforms remain vital.
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