DTI reminds public to avoid buying substandard Christmas lights

Local

AS more Filipino homes are decorated with Christmas lights, the trade regulatory agency has urged households to buy safe and compliant products to avoid fire hazards during the festive season.

The Department of Trade and Industry-Central Visayas (DTI-7) reminded consumers to ensure that lights bear the Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) marks, indicating compliance with safety and quality standards.

According to Epefania "Joy" Suralta, chief of DTI 7’s Consumer Protection Division, the agency is conducting inspections in malls, public markets, and other retail outlets to verify that Christmas lights being sold meet government standards.

The PS and ICC marks are critical because they show that the products have undergone rigorous testing and certification by the Bureau of Philippine Standards.

Suralta highlighted the importance of scrutinizing packaging for details such as the manufacturer’s name, product warnings, and the country of origin.

She stressed that uncertified products could cause electrical shocks or fires and fail to meet safety regulations.

The DTI clarified that sellers found offering noncompliant Christmas lights may face penalties, including fines, confiscation of products, or even business closures.

However, Suralta said that, so far, 35,000 merchants in Cebu Province, including highly urbanized cities of Cebu, Lapu-lapu and Mandaue, remain compliant by selling legitimate Christmas lights.

Suralta noted that uncertified lights often do not undergo the proper inspection process, putting consumers at significant risk.

Based on past reports, EcoWaste Coalition’s recent tests also revealed that uncertified lights frequently contain hazardous materials, such as excessive levels of lead in their wiring, which could harm both human health and the environment.

These findings reinforce the importance of choosing certified products to ensure a safe and environmentally friendly celebration.

By purchasing safe and compliant lights, families can enjoy the festive season without compromising their safety.(MyTVCebu)