PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has reiterated that businesses in Palawan are required to secure a sales promotion permit before launching any promotional activity intended to encourage consumers to purchase products or avail of services.
DTI Senior Trade Specialist Persival Narbonita clarified that the requirement applies when promotions are communicated through tri-media or mass channels such as social media, posters, flyers, tarpaulins, or other printed and digital materials. Each distinct promotional scheme must be covered by a permit issued by the department.
“Ang pinag-uusapan natin dito ay mga lehitimong negosyante. As long as meron silang ipo-promote na ang purpose ay hihikayatin ang mga mamimili na bibili sa kanila ng produkto o mag-avail ng kanilang serbisyo na mayroong gain din doon sa consumer, halimbawa discount, either sa social media o tarpaulin,” Narbonita explained.
According to the DTI, a sales promotion generally involves the purchase of a consumer product, the availability of a service, or initiatives designed to build product or brand loyalty, all with the objective of boosting sales. These campaigns are offered for a limited duration—up to a maximum of one year—and include promises of cash prizes, discounts, or in-kind benefits.
The requirement to secure a permit is mandated under the Consumer Act of the Philippines or Republic Act No. 7394. The law aims to safeguard consumers against deceptive, misleading, or unfair marketing practices by ensuring that sales promotions, raffles, and contests are legitimate, transparent, and fair.
Narbonita noted that certain activities are exempt from the permit requirement. Simple in-store discounts offered without any promotional mechanics, for example, do not require DTI approval. He also pointed out that large establishments, such as malls operating in Puerto Princesa City and other parts of Palawan, usually secure their permits through the DTI central office.
He further clarified that games of chance or gambling activities are not regulated by the DTI.
“Minsan may napapansin tayo sa social media na slot, magd-draw sa sunod na araw at ang papremyo ay ganito, isang sasakyan. Hindi ‘yon sa DTI, ‘yon ay gambling. Game of chance. Sasali ka, risk mo ‘yon. Walang kasiguraduhan kung mananalo ka ro’n,” Narbonita said.
To improve accessibility and efficiency, the DTI announced that it will soon begin accepting online applications for sales promotion permits and repair shop accreditations in Palawan, making compliance easier for local businesses while strengthening consumer protection across the province. [via PIA]
Via: Cool Cherry Trees
