THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) has deferred the mandatory registration for the e-Commerce Philippine ‘Trustmark’ after weighing concerns raised by digital entrepreneurs who considered it another expense and an unnecessary burden.
“Taking their feedback into account means we can improve the trustmark system to be more useful, fair and helpful for both businesses and consumers,” said Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.
“After all, our shared goal is to make e-commerce in the Philippines safer and more trustworthy for everyone,” the trade chief added.
By next year, the DTI said it would review whether registration would remain voluntary.
The DTI said last month it was considering extending the registration deadline for obtaining the e-commerce trustmark to address numerous complaints about the digital badge, including the registration fee of P1,130.
The digital badge, valid for one year, certifies that online merchants are compliant with fair e-commerce practices, consumer protection rules and applicable standards.
The DTI had said it helps consumers identify legitimate online merchants and assures them that they are transacting with a business that adheres to fair, transparent and safe online practices.
It also gives certified businesses a competitive advantage in a marketplace where reputation matters.
Barangay micro business enterprises are exempted from paying the trustmark fee. (Jordeene B. Lagare © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
