Sen. Bam Aquino urges DTI to review mandatory Trustmark for online businesses

Senator Bam Aquino urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to review its mandatory "Trustmark" requirement for online businesses.

The Philippine Trustmark is a digital badge intended to recognize online merchants and platforms adhering to trustworthiness and fair e-commerce practices.

However, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque stated that the regulation will remain, emphasizing its role in protecting consumers and traders from e-commerce fraud.

Secretary Roque highlighted that the Trustmark signifies legitimate online sellers, which benefits consumers.

The DTI's order mandates compliance by December 31, 2025, with the application now free for micro online sellers, though they will still pay an administration fee of P100 and P30 for the documentary stamp.

Aquino expressed concern that this mandate could discourage MSMEs from operating online and potentially conflict with existing laws.

Online sellers and users on Reddit forums have also voiced backlash, describing the Trustmark as an added cost and bureaucracy.