Sen. Bam Aquino pushed back against a planned Department Administrative Order of the Department of Trade and Industry that would require permits before advertisements and sales promotions are released, warning that the added process could punish micro, small, and medium enterprises and online sellers already struggling with high costs.
Aquino said small businesses have not fully recovered from fuel price shocks and rising expenses, yet may face another layer of paperwork before they can promote products and reach customers. He flagged a possible one-month waiting period and fees ranging from ₱975 to ₱9,295 per advertisement, which he said would be another burden for entrepreneurs trying to stay afloat.
“Hindi makatarungang dagdagan pa ang ating maliliit na negosyo ng panibagong bayarin at matagal na proseso bago sila makapaglabas ng advertisements at promotions para sa kanilang negosyo,” Aquino said.
The senator said consumer protection should remain a priority, but government rules must be practical, fair, and responsive to the actual conditions faced by small businesses.
“Mahalaga ang consumer protection, pero dapat praktikal, makatwiran, at naaayon sa tunay na kalagayan ng ating mga negosyo,” he said.
DTI already requires permits for covered sales promotions under the Consumer Act, which is meant to protect the public from fraudulent, misleading, or unfair marketing practices. The department has also invited public comments on its proposed rules covering advertising and sales promotion permits.
Aquino said enforcement should focus on deceptive and fake advertisements instead of making legitimate sellers wait longer and pay more before advertising their products.
“Sa panahon ngayon, mas kailangan ng ating mga maliliit na negosyante ang suporta at oportunidad, hindi dagdag na pasanin,” Aquino said.
