The Department of Trade and Industry in Western Visayas (DTI-6) reminds the public of the product standards for Christmas lights and fireworks as the holiday season approaches.

DTI officials, in a press conference held on December 3, emphasized the importance of purchasing certified and compliant products to avoid fire and electrical hazards.

The agency intensified its monitoring across 46 outlets in Western Visayas for compliance with Christmas lights this season.

Grace Benedicto, chief of the DTI-6 Consumer Protection Division, said the agency continues to ensure that only safe and certified products reach the market.

“We at DTI remain committed to protecting every Filipino household, and this season, we emphasize that safety is the utmost concern and that there is a real hazard in Christmas lights, which is why it is under mandatory certification,” she said.

Benedicto added that consumers should always check for the required markings, either the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker for imported items or the Philippine Standard (PS) mark for locally produced products.

“We ensure that every product in the market is certified, of good quality, and safe to use, and more importantly, consumers should be informed and vigilant,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of knowing how to verify these labels before making a purchase, noting that the PS mark carries a globe symbol while the ICC sticker is a hologram with a scannable QR code.

“Check the markings, and when in doubt, don’t buy,” she added.

DTI-6 Assistant Regional Director Mutya Eusores reminded the public that responsible buying plays a key role in household safety during the holidays.

“By following precautionary measures, we, consumers, can enjoy safely while celebrating the season, and we can never compromise safety,” Eusores said.

She added that choosing certified Christmas lights also prevents potential accidents.

“We buy only certified and compliant Christmas lights because we can protect our households from fire and other electrical hazards,” she said.

DTI urges consumers to remain cautious and report stores selling uncertified products as part of the agency’s continuing efforts to promote safe holiday celebrations. (PIA-6)