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Telecommunications equipment industry

Cellular Manufacturers Commit to Consumer Protection in the Philippines

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a recent meeting with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), top cellular manufacturers Nokia Philippines and Sony Ericsson committed to addressing consumer complaints promptly. This move comes as part of the DTI's campaign to protect consumers from unscrupulous mobile phone traders, particularly those operating in tiangge or flea markets. The cooperation aims to safeguard the interests of both consumers and manufacturers, ensuring that consumers receive quality handsets with warranties and proper after-sales service.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nokia and Sony Ericsson have agreed to act on consumer complaints regarding product warranty, but only for handsets purchased from authorized retailers.
  • The Consumer Welfare Division of the BTRCP will verify the IMEI number of the handset to determine its legitimacy, providing warranty coverage to consumers who purchased from authorized channels.
  • Currently, Nokia offers a one-year warranty for the handset battery and charger, while Sony Ericsson provides a one-year warranty for the handset alone.
  • In 2004, the BTRCP received 215 complaints regarding cellular phones, with reasons including defective units, deceptive sales acts, and defective service.
  • From January to April 2006, the BTRCP received 48 complaints, with 37 involving defective products and six resulting from deceptive sales practices.
  • Handsets sold in tiangge or flea markets are often sourced from unauthorized channels, lacking warranties and offering repair charges ranging from P150 to P250.
  • Nokia offers a one-year warranty for the handset battery and charger, while Sony Ericsson provides a one-year warranty for the handset alone.
  • The recent meeting between Nokia, Sony Ericsson, and the DTI aims to protect consumers from unscrupulous mobile phone traders and promote fair trade practices.

Statistics:

  • 215 complaints regarding cellular phones were received by the BTRCP in 2004.
  • 48 complaints were received by the BTRCP from January to April 2006, with 37 related to defective products and six to deceptive sales practices.
  • Repair charges for handsets purchased from unauthorized retailers range from P150 to P250.

Sources:

  • Asia Pulse, June 16
  • (no date specified)

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