THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the Internet Transactions Act of 2023 (ITA) is now in full effect following the end of its transitory period on June 20, making strict new rules and potential liabilities immediately enforceable for all online merchants and digital platforms.

In a statement on Monday, June 23, 2025, DTI said the act now empowers the agency 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.

Effective immediately, all e-marketplaces, e-retailers, and online merchants must disclose the price, brand name, description, condition, and the seller’s contact details for all goods and services offered.

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

“In line with President (Ferdinand R.) Marcos’ (Jr.) directive to build a safe and inclusive digital economy, the full implementation of the Internet Transactions Act is a promise fulfilled to the Filipino people,” said Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.

“Our goal is to give every Filipino consumer peace of mind when they shop online while ensuring that our thousands of legitimate local entrepreneurs and MSMEs are protected from unfair competition and illicit trade.”

To enforce compliance, the DTI, through its E-Commerce Bureau, can now issue subpoenas that compel individuals and entities under investigation to produce relevant documents.

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

The DTI said it is developing a Philippine E-Commerce Trustmark, which will act as a seal of quality for compliant and trustworthy online businesses. /