NBI Uncovers P15-M Worth of Counterfeit Cement, Protecting Consumers from Substandard Products

The NBI Operation: A Detailed Overview On Wednesday, an exclusive report by John Consulta on 24 Oras highlighted the NBI Intellectual Property Rights Division (NBI-IPRD) as they executed a series of raids in Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, and various locations within the NCR. The operation was part of a broader effort to eliminate counterfeit products that threaten public safety and the integrity of construction practices. According to John Ignacio, the chief of NBI-IPRD, the counterfeit adhesive cement was remarkably deceptive. “Hindi mo mahahalata eh. Talagang very small difference sa packaging ang mano-notice. Yung loob, substandard din,” he explained. This statement underscores the challenges consumers face in distinguishing between genuine and fake products, making it all the more critical for authorities to step in. The Dangers of Using Counterfeit Cement The ramifications of using these counterfeit adhesive cements are severe. As Ignacio pointed out, “Kapag ginamit niyo ito, mapapansin niyo after six [months] or one year, magbibitakan na yung cement na ito sa pader.” The potential for structural damage, such as cracking walls within months of application, emphasizes the importance of using verified, high-quality materials in construction. Consumers must be vigilant and informed to avoid the pitfalls of substandard products. Legal Consequences for Infringers The establishments involved in this operation will face serious legal repercussions, including charges for trademark infringement and unfair competition. As Ignacio noted, the complainant is set to file a motion for destruction, which will lead to the disposal of the counterfeit adhesive cements. Furthermore, the NBI has flagged these businesses for tax evasion, highlighting a broader issue of compliance within the industry.