The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confiscated around ₱700,000 worth of alleged substandard automotive batteries during an operation in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, resulting in the arrest of two individuals.
The CIDG Pangasinan Provincial Field Unit, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pangasinan and the Dagupan City Police Station, conducted the operation on July 15, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at a warehouse in Barangay Tebeng.
Authorities said the operation was carried out in response to an alleged violation of Republic Act No. 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines. A total of 180 pieces of imported automotive batteries were seized during the raid.
CIDG Director PMGen. Robert AA Morico II said the arrested suspects, identified only as “Isa,” the female warehouse owner, and “Al,” a male warehouse employee, were allegedly found possessing, controlling, and selling imported automotive batteries from India that were reportedly “uncertified” and “non-conforming.”
Authorities said the products may pose safety risks to consumers and could violate consumer protection laws.
Morico emphasized that the government remains committed to protecting consumers by ensuring that only safe, quality, and compliant products are sold in the market.
The CIDG said uncertified automotive batteries may pose risks ranging from vehicle failure to physical hazards, as these products allegedly bypass standard quality-control procedures and verification requirements.