DTI defers mandatory Trustmark registration, extends voluntary phase until year-end

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced on Wednesday that registration for the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark (Trustmark) will remain voluntary until December 31, deferring its mandatory implementation to allow for further consultations and system improvements.

The announcement was made during the “Bida ang Konsyumer: Ensuring a Safe and Reliable E-Commerce Environment” town hall meeting, where online business operators, consumer groups, and digital trade advocates shared insights and suggestions on the program’s rollout.

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said the decision was made after taking into account feedback from various sectors, emphasizing that continuous dialogue with stakeholders is key to building a more inclusive and effective Trustmark system.

“We used this discussion to hear straight from our stakeholders and learn about their daily concerns. Taking their feedback into account means we can improve the Trustmark system to be more useful, fair, and helpful for both businesses and consumers,” Roque said. “After all, our shared goal is to make e-commerce in the Philippines safer and more trustworthy for everyone.”

The voluntary phase for Trustmark registration will continue through the end of 2025. The DTI will conduct a comprehensive review by early 2026 to determine whether registration will remain voluntary or transition to mandatory implementation.

During this period, the DTI reminded business owners and consumers that all existing e-commerce and consumer protection laws remain in full force and effect.

Consumer organizations lauded the Trustmark program for enhancing buyer protection, while businesses said it would help curb fraudulent activities and illegitimate entities that affect their operations. Both sectors called for broader promotion and education on the program and expressed their preference for making it mandatory in the future.

Participants from consumers and business groups, along with DTI regional and provincial offices nationwide, also reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the country’s e-commerce industry through shared responsibility and cooperation.

The DTI is currently finalizing the program’s supplemental guidelines, particularly those covering voluntary registration and corresponding fees based on business size and type, among others. Nonetheless, online businesses can still proceed with their Trustmark application through https://trustmark.dti.gov.ph/.

For inquiries or concerns related to the Trustmark, stakeholders may contact the DTI E-Commerce Bureau via landline at (+632) 7791-3282 or email attrustmark@dti.gov.ph.