Fines Up To ₱2 Million, 15 Years Jail Time For Face Shield Sellers Selling Above ₱50 SRP

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Thursday, August 13, warned sellers that if they will ignore the PHP26 to PHP50 suggested retail price (SRP) for non-medical grade face shields, they could be fined up to PHP2 million.

According to Undersecretary Ruth Castelo, the DTI already disseminated the information on the SRP to different platforms.

“Ang penalty doon — this is covered kasi by the Price Act dahil declared ng Department of Health na basic commodity siya or essential good — PHP2 million ang maximum, PHP5,000 minimum,” Castelo said in an interview on GMA Network’s Unang Hirit, adding that there is also imprisonment of five to 15 years for profiteering.

Signed by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Monday, Department Order No. 0345, which imposes the SRP, only covers non-medical grade face shields. 

The non-medical grade face shield is described with the following specifications: 

-clear plastic or acetate material providing good visibility and fog resistance 

-with an adjustable band to attach firmly around the head and fit snuggly against the forehead

 

-covering the full face 

-made of robust material that can be easily cleaned and disinfected, disposable or reusable 

Castelo said the basic shields are with garter, foam, acetate sheet, and frame. 

Loading...

However, she noted that heavy-duty face shields made of other materials like an acrylic cover and rubber strap can be sold at PHP500, higher than the SRP for basic ones.

She added that locally-produced face shields with a sturdier frame and thicker acetate sheet, and those in three pieces per package, can also be sold at higher prices.

Starting on August 15, and as a precaution against COVID-19, wearing face shields is mandatory in public transportation and workplaces. 

READ: Millions Of Vietnamese Students Adapts To New Normal After Schools Reopen

Source: GMA