Trade office issues warning vs fake ICC stickers

DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Director Nazrullah Manzur has warned motorists to be watchful and cautious in buying crash helmets, especially from those offering discounts.

Manzur issued the warning after a motorist was almost victimized had he not consulted with the DTI about a crash helmet sold to him bearing an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker with big discounts.

ZAMBOANGA. A motorist shows a crash helmet with the corresponding silver-colored ICC sticker, in compliance with the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009. (Bong Garcia)

Manzur said the ICC sticker appeared to be genuine, but it was discovered that its serial number is not for crash helmets.

The ICC sticker placed on the crash helmet may have been taken from a Christmas lights packaging or other imported products, Manzur said.

"Those found guilty of altering, faking or replicating the ICC mark would be fined up to P20,000," Manzur warned, adding there are lots of imbedded security features to prevent the tampering of the stickers.

The DTI, together with the Land Transportation Office, has started implementing this month Republic Act 10054, otherwise known as Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, which mandates all motorcycle riders to wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while driving. (Bong Garcia)