ISKO WARNS SHOPEE, LAZADA ON SALE OF COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS

Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso has called out online shops like Shopee and Lazada over their alleged lack of due diligence for allowing counterfeit products to be sold through their online platforms.

Domagoso recently led a raid and the closure of two warehouses in Binondo for selling counterfeit beauty and cosmetic products and operating without business permits, according to a PNA report.

After an investigation, the Manila Bureau of Permits said the products found at the two warehouses are sold through Shopee and Lazada and are delivered in various parts of the country.

"I think Shopee and Lazada should do some due diligence. It is not always the money, about earning, it's always about protecting your consumer," Domagoso said.

He added that even the lessors of the two warehouses identified as Jerry Ong and Johnson Sy, failed to submit a business permit for wholesaler and occupational permits for service personnel, as well as a license to operate issued by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA).

Domagoso served the immediate closure orders together with Bureau of Permits director Levi Facundo, and Manila Police District Special Mayor's Reaction Team (MPD-SMaRT) chief Maj. Rosalino Ibay.

He clarified that while businesses are welcome to operate in Manila, they should acquire the proper permits needed to operate.

Meanwhile, among those found inside the first warehouse include counterfeit products such as shampoos, lotion, body wash, bath bombs, and other high-end products bearing the brands of Unilever, Procter and Gamble, Victoria's Secret, Calvin Klein, and Bulgari.

On the second warehouse, boxes of Johnson and Johnson's baby lotion, Cetaphil, bath soaps, and other medical cosmetic products, among others, were found.

Domagoso warned the two popular online shops to strengthen their requirements in accepting sellers.