DTI orders Filipino, English translations in marketing materials

MANILA, Philippines — Business establishments are required to provide Filipino or English translations of their signages, billboards, menus and other marketing materials.

Under Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Administrative Order 19-09 issued on June 21, business owners should also ensure that the English or Filipino translations are visible and printed or written legibly.

To ensure the translations are accurate, business establishments will be required to secure a certification from the embassy of the country whose language is sought to be translated to, from its accredited translator or interpreter or competent individual or institution recognized by the DTI.

The order was issued following an inspection of a Chinese food park in Las Piñas City, where 33 food stalls have signages, price lists and receipts in Chinese characters.

“We are enhancing the protection of consumers on their right to accessible information that can help them in making wise purchase decisions. Presenting information on products and services in foreign languages other than those officially recognized and used by the consumers are deemed unfair and discriminatory, thus, inimical to their interest,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said.

Violators face fines ranging from P1,000 to P300,000, depending on the business establishment’s capitalization and frequency of offense.

The registration and business permits of the establishments may also be cancelled.