Philippines starts enforcement of e-com law, liability rules

This makes strict new rules and potential liabilities immediately enforceable for all online merchants and digital platforms.

The act now empowers the department to issue takedown orders against online listings for illegal goods or services. Digital platforms can also be held solidarily liable with sellers for violations if they fail to act on illicit activities on their sites, a domestic news agency reported citing a DTI statement.

All e-marketplaces, e-retailers and online merchants must now disclose the price, brand name, description, condition and the seller's contact details for all goods and services.

Platforms must also operate accessible and equitable consumer redress systems, secure payment methods and robust data protection standards.

The department’s e-commerce bureau can now issue subpoenas that compel individuals and entities under investigation to produce relevant documents.

The department’s authority, however, is ancillary to the primary jurisdiction of other regulatory agencies over specific goods or services.

The department is developing a Philippine e-commerce trust mark, a seal of quality for compliant and trustworthy online businesses.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DS)