By The Philippine Star
As more Filipinos flock to malls and commercial centers nationwide, a consumer advocacy group has called on the government to implement immediate and consistent enforcement against the sale of counterfeit and unapproved goods to protect public safety and promote fair competition.
According to the Filipino Consumers for Reform (FILCORE), counterfeit and unapproved goods are no longer confined to physical markets. On major e-commerce platforms such as TikTok Shop, Lazada and Shopee, consumers can easily encounter copycat branded items, unregistered cosmetics and gadgets without proper safety markings.
It cited Greenhills Shopping Center which has been on the United States Trade Representative (USTR)’s notorious market for counterfeit goods list for six years since 2018 for its continuous sale of counterfeit goods, ranging from electronics to apparel. These products pose significant risks to consumers and the economy as they often fail to meet safety standards, lack proper certifications, and undermine legitimate businesses that comply with the law.
In its 2024 report, the USTR stated that “law enforcement authorities, in collaboration with right holders, have conducted raids at the mall, and the management at Greenhills Shopping Center has applied a three-strike rule to take action against counterfeit sellers.” Despite this, the shopping center remains on the watchlist, and right holders continue to report a high volume of hidden counterfeit goods.
Also, a 2024 regional study on intermediary liability for counterfeit goods in Southeast Asian e-commerce marketplaces by intellectual property firm Rouse found that rapid growth on platforms including Shopee, TikTok Shop and Lazada has “fueled the rise of counterfeit goods” across the region, as logistics innovations make it easier for counterfeiters to reach consumers online.
To ensure public safety and promote fair competition, FILCORE urges the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), mall operators and e-commerce platforms to uphold consistent and visible enforcement of existing product standards and certification requirements. They should also conduct frequent inspections of tenant stalls, kiosks and independent retailers ,emphasizing the importance of implementing clear penalties for sellers distributing counterfeit or unapproved goods.
READ the full story HERE.
