🛑 Avoiding Product Scams in the Philippines
English–Tagalog Guide Based on FDA and DTI Warnings
In a world where online shopping and social media selling are booming, so are the risks of **product scams**. From fake medicines to counterfeit cosmetics, the Philippines has seen a surge in deceptive products that pose serious health and financial risks.
Sa panahon ng mabilisang online shopping, dapat doble ingat tayo. Maraming produkto ang hindi rehistrado sa FDA o walang permit mula sa DTI—at maaaring makasama sa kalusugan o bulsa mo.
🔍 What Counts as a Product Scam?
- Fake medicines or supplements sold without FDA approval
- Cosmetics with harmful ingredients like mercury or lead
- Online gadgets na hindi gumagana or iba sa in-order mo
- “Too good to be true” promos na walang DTI permit
According to the FDA Philippines, counterfeit drugs may contain wrong or no active ingredients, and can cause serious health issues—even death.
🧠 How to Spot a Scam Product
- Check if the product is listed on the FDA website
- Look for proper labeling, batch number, and expiry date
- Beware of products sold in informal channels (tiangge, FB live, etc.)
- Verify if the seller has a DTI business registration
- Check for a valid DTI sales promo permit number
- Report deceptive sellers via dticustomercares@gmail.com
📦 Online Shopping? Do These First
- Buy only from FDA-licensed pharmacies or DTI-registered sellers
- Use secure payment methods (GCash, Maya, credit card)
- Take screenshots of product details and seller info
- Check reviews and ratings—lalo na kung sa social media ka bibili
Huwag basta-basta magtiwala sa “legit reseller” kung walang proof. Always ask for FDA Certificate or DTI Business Name Registration.
📣 What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
Don’t panic—may karapatan ka bilang consumer.
- File a complaint with DTI via here: "https://podrs.dti.gov.ph/" or email: dticustomercares@gmail.com
- Report fake health products to FDA via ereport@fda.gov.ph
- Use your bank or e-wallet’s dispute system for refunds
Under Republic Act 7394 (Consumer Act), sellers can be penalized for deceptive practices. May multa at kulong ang mga mapanlinlang na nagbebenta.
🧼 Final Thoughts: Scam-Free Shopping Starts With You
Product scams are everywhere—but so is information. By staying alert, checking with FDA and DTI, and reporting suspicious sellers, you help protect not just yourself but the entire community.
Ang ligtas na pamimili ay nagsisimula sa tamang kaalaman. Don’t let scammers profit from your trust. Be smart, be skeptical, and always verify.
