DTI issues warning vs fake ICC helmet stickers

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao Region has issued a warning against possible purchase of motorcycle helmets with fake Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers.

The said advisory has cited the brand names Ben 2, KH, NSS, Oscar, Cobra, Pioneer and 2A, which possibly bear fake ICC markings.

These brands are imported by Double E Trading, based on the record of DTI’s Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) with a registered address of No. 525 Femii Building, A. Soriano Avenue, Intramuros, Manila.

DTI added that the advisory came after some motorcycle sold at Unitop General Merchandise in Dumaguete City were found to bearing fake ICC stickers. Such helmets, accordingly, were from Double E Trading.

Moreover, motorcycle helmets without ICC stickers were also sealed by DTI inside the warehouse of Unitop General Merchandise in Malabon City, Metro Manila.

The issuance of ICC stickers was pursuant to the implementation of the joint Administrative Order No. 1:2011 of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and DTI, in consonance to Republic Act 10054 or the Helmet Law.

In Davao Region, the issuance of ICC stickers for motorcycle helmets started in August last year. Such activity lasted until December 28, the last working day of the year.

DTI regional director Marizon S. Loreto said the agency's provincial offices are intensifying their monitoring efforts to properly address this concern.

However, Loreto said, the agency needs the vigilance of consumers in order to strengthen their monitoring activities.

"We need the support of the public. If they know of an establishment that could be selling helmets bearing fake ICC stickers, please report to us immediately. Our monitoring teams are lean so we definitely need your help," she said.