Entities engaged in internet transactions or electronic commerce are encouraged to obtain the Philippine E-Commerce Trustmark (or Trustmark) as a voluntary mark of compliance with e-commerce policies, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
In a notice posted on its website on Monday, the DTI sought public and e-commerce stakeholder comments on the draft department administrative order (DAO) announcing the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) on the Trustmark.
The DTI said the Trustmark has been designed to build consumer confidence and promote adherence to standards in e-commerce by fostering a culture of trust and voluntary compliance with consumer protection policies.
It stressed the Trustmark is not a license or a permit to engage in e-commerce, and does not exempt the holder from compliance with other applicable laws or regulations.
“The Trustmark signifies that the products, goods or services sold online by the holder are trustworthy, safe and secure, and demonstrates the holder’s commitment to compliance with applicable standards and good e-commerce practices,” the draft DAO said.
The crafting of the IRR is pursuant to Republic Act No. 11967, or the Internet Transactions Act of 2023 to promote safe and fair digital trade, the DTI added.
The IRR said holders of a Trustmark would be entitled to incentives such as streamlined access to DTI programs and services, including those for micro, small and medium enterprises; support; market access; business matching; and priority handling in the processing of relevant DTI permits or certifications.
The draft DAO specified the requirements for obtaining the Trustmark.
They include: a business name registration with the DTI, or a certificate of incorporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or a certificate of registration with the Cooperative Development Authority; mayor’s permit or business permit issued by the local government unit where the principal place of business is located; Bureau of Internal Revenue certificate of registration; list of digital platforms or websites used for online sales; valid government-issued ID of the applicant; certificate of no pending formal charge issued by the DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau; and a step-by-step guide on the applicant’s internal redress mechanism.
The draft DAO said the holder of a Trustmark shall be automatically listed on the Online Business Database.
The DAO also said the Trustmark shall be displayed in the holder’s official website, digital storefront, seller profile, and may also be displayed at the holder’s registered brick-and-mortar stores or place of business.
The Trustmark shall be valid for one year from the date of issuance, the DAO said.
In the notice, the DTI is inviting all concerned stakeholders to submit their comments on or before May 16, 2025 to the DTI Electronic Commerce Bureau.
