AS THE 2025 holiday season approaches, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) XI reminds shoppers to be cautious and vigilant when buying Christmas lights and lighting sets.
The agency advised consumers to verify the mandatory safety marks: the Philippine Standard (PS) quality and/or safety mark or the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker to ensure the products meet stringent safety standards.
The DTI Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) ensures that DTI-regulated Christmas lights and lighting sets, which are permanently connected in series or series-parallel on a flexible conductor designed for connection to a main power supply, comply with national standards.
The PS mark is granted to local manufacturers who have successfully passed factory audits and product testing. This indicates that the manufacturer’s products comply with Philippine safety and quality standards on an ongoing basis.
On the other hand, the ICC sticker is issued to importers on a per-shipment per bill of per-bill-of-lading basis. This is granted after imported products undergo thorough inspection and testing, ensuring they meet the required product standards.
The DTI BPS has recently updated the comprehensive list of approved Christmas lights for the 2025 season. This list includes essential details like the PS and ICC numbers, manufacturer information, and product descriptions. Consumers are encouraged to check this list before purchasing.
To protect consumers nationwide, the DTI has implemented several measures, including (1) mandatory certification for all manufacturers and importers of Christmas lights; (2) continuous monitoring and enforcement of product standards law nationwide; and (3) PS orientation sessions conducted by DTI XI among various retailers across the region to ensure they only sell certified products.
“A safe Christmas is a joyful Christmas. By only choosing certified products, consumers can light up their holidays with confidence and ensure a truly worry-free celebration,” DTI XI regional director Romeo L. Castañaga emphasized.
“We remind every shopper to be discerning and to assert their rights in all buying environments, especially online. Your family’s well-being is non-negotiable. Do not compromise safety for marginal savings. Invest in DTI-certified products to guarantee a bright, worry-free holiday,” Castañaga added.
The complete and updated list of DTI-approved Christmas lights, effective as of November 11, 2025, is readily available. Consumers are strongly advised to check the official product list on the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) website here: bps.dti.gov.ph/product-certification/certified-products. DTIXI/DPB/JMM
