THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with an industry group to curb the unauthorized online sale of products from legitimate direct selling companies, as it steps up oversight of e-commerce platforms.
The DTI said its E-Commerce Bureau (ECB) had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Direct Selling Association of the Philippines (DSAP) on March 17. This is to formalize cooperation in monitoring and addressing unauthorized resellers.
Under the agreement, both sides will establish mechanisms for information sharing, joint monitoring of online listings, and coordinated action against sellers offering products without authorization.
Their partnership also covers consumer education campaigns and capacity-building initiatives.
DTI ECB director Eryl Royce Nagtalon said the move aims to strengthen enforcement as more transactions shift online.
“Effective e-commerce governance requires collaboration. The government cannot do this alone,” Nagtalon said.
He added: “The goal of this partnership is not only to address unauthorized online selling of direct selling companies’ products, more importantly, this is about building trust in the digital marketplace.”
Direct selling firms are authorized vendors of products or services to customers, typically operating through established distribution networks.
Raising the bar
DSAP said the rapid growth of e-commerce has highlighted the need to safeguard consumers and protect legitimate businesses, particularly by raising the standards across digital marketplaces.
The DTI said the partnership aligns with Republic Act No. 11967, or the Internet Transactions Act, which mandates the agency to strengthen consumer protection and ensure fair competition in online commerce.
DSAP chair Joey Sarmiento said the group supports tighter coordination with regulators as more direct selling firms expand into digital platforms.
“This partnership… reflects a shared vision of a digital marketplace built on trust, accountability and responsible innovation,” Sarmiento said.
DSAP members include Avon Cosmetics Inc., Edmark Philippines Inc., Mary Kay Philippines Inc., Neolife International Inc., Nu Skin Enterprises Philippines LLC, and UHS Essential Health Philippines Inc. (Logan Kal-El M. Zapanta © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
