DTI eyes development of e-commerce trustmark

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is looking to develop an e-commerce trustmark as part of the government's initiatives to protect consumers from fraudsters and scammers.

- CATHERINE TALAVERA

The development of an e-commerce Philippine trustmark to inform consumers that the goods or services sold online can be trustworthy is among the provisions in the draft implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 11967 or the Internet Transactions Act (ITA).

"To provide assurance of safety and security in internet transactions, the DTI shall encourage the development of an e-commerce Philippine trustmark, which may be established and operated by an industry-led private sector governance body," the DTI said in the draft implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

"The trustmark shall signify that the products, goods or services sold online can be trustworthy, provided that symbol, image, or badge issued or awarded are accredited by the concerned agencies," it added.

The DTI said trustmark will operate as a co-regulation mechanism and is subject to guidelines, rules, or regulations.

The trade department said it will issue the minimum requirements and operation criteria for the industry-led private sector governance body or bodies.