EcoWaste Coalition Hails Full Enforcement of Internet Transactions Act as a Turning Point in Consumer and Environmental Protection

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Dangerous, banned, and toxic products face crackdown in Philippine online marketplaces as watchdog group demands full compliance and accountability.

Quezon City, Philippines – June 26, 2025 — A new era of accountability dawns in the Philippines’ digital marketplace as the EcoWaste Coalition celebrates the full enforcement of Republic Act No. 11967, also known as the Internet Transactions Act (ITA). After an 18-month transitory period, the landmark legislation now takes full effect, promising sweeping reforms across the country’s booming e-commerce sector—and offering renewed hope for consumer safety and environmental health.

“This is the beaming light at the end of the tunnel,” declared Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of EcoWaste Coalition. “We have long witnessed the rampant and unregulated online sale of hazardous goods. The full implementation of this law is a decisive step forward to protect consumers from toxic and dangerous products that have no place in our homes—or in our future.”

Passed in 2023 by the 19th Congress, RA 11967 formally took effect on June 20, 2025, triggering a wave of enforcement measures by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the newly established E-Commerce Bureau (ECB). This includes the authority to issue takedown orders against illegal goods and services sold online and to hold digital platforms jointly liable with sellers if they fail to act on illicit listings.

“Our laws must evolve with the times,” emphasized Atty. Grip Bueta, legal counsel of the EcoWaste Coalition. “As more Filipinos turn to digital platforms for their everyday needs, our regulatory mechanisms must also expand to ensure that the right to a clean, healthy, and toxin-free environment is not left behind in the rush toward digital convenience. RA 11967 gives us a legal weapon to protect that right.”

A New Digital Mandate

At the core of the ITA is a mandatory E-Commerce Code of Conduct, which now governs every individual and entity engaged in online selling. This code enshrines basic consumer rights—to accurate information, to choose safe products, to redress grievances, and most importantly, to be protected from harm. The law expressly prohibits the sale of items that do not conform to existing regulations, including products recalled from the offline market.

The EcoWaste Coalition, a long-time environmental and health watchdog, has tirelessly tracked and exposed hazardous items lurking in Philippine cyberspace—from mercury-laden skin whiteners, lead-containing paints, to unregulated household products. These toxic goods often bypass traditional retail scrutiny, exploiting the anonymity and reach of digital platforms.

With the ECB now in operation, the Coalition is hopeful that the government can finally bring order to this once lawless frontier of commerce.

“We are placing our trust in the ECB and its allied agencies to clean up the digital marketplace,” the group said in a joint statement. “But this cannot be done in isolation. It requires an active, informed, and vigilant citizenry—consumers who report, regulators who respond, and sellers who act responsibly.”

Shared Accountability

Under the new law, digital platforms are no longer passive bystanders. They are now co-responsible for any violations committed within their virtual storefronts. This radical shift in liability—previously reserved for sellers alone—sends a strong message: hosting dangerous or illegal content is no longer business as usual.

For the EcoWaste Coalition, this marks a pivotal moment in the country’s digital evolution—one where ethics, safety, and sustainability are no longer optional, but mandatory.

“Unchecked digital growth cannot come at the cost of public health and safety,” Lucero concluded. “We envision a future where e-commerce in the Philippines becomes a model of responsible innovation—where both business and government work hand in hand to ensure that what we buy online won’t hurt us, or our planet.”

As the full force of RA 11967 begins to ripple through cyberspace, the EcoWaste Coalition urges the public to stay vigilant, report violators, and demand transparency from online sellers. The age of impunity for digital toxicity is ending—and a safer, cleaner, and more accountable e-commerce landscape is finally within reach.

Bondoc Peninsula Unites: Bold Alliance Sparks New Hope for Farmers and Fisherfolk in Quezon

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Padre Burgos, Quezon — June 10, 2025

In a powerful show of unity, more than 50 leaders and representatives from 15 organizations gathered in the heart of Padre Burgos, Quezon, to ignite a transformative movement across the agricultural and fisheries sectors of the Bondoc Peninsula (BonPen). This high-impact stakeholders' meeting brought together voices from Padre Burgos, Agdangan, and Unisan — three municipalities bound by the shared goal of uplifting their farmers and fisherfolk through sustainable development and empowered governance.

Convened by the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF), the forum served as a catalyst for coordinated action to fortify value chains in coconut, rice, vegetables, and fisheries. It also served as a landmark step in aligning local agricultural priorities with the broader legislative frameworks of their respective LGUs.

Attendees included municipal agriculturists, development officers, and prominent representatives from key national agencies — Landbank, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), PhilMech, the Quezon Federation and Union of Cooperatives, and a diverse array of local cooperatives and associations. Each one brought to the table insights, strategies, and resources aimed at revolutionizing food production and economic opportunity in the region.

A Shared Vision for Agricultural Transformation

Throughout the day-long summit, municipal agriculturists showcased current programs focused on modernizing agriculture and aquaculture — from enhancing access to funding, upgrading post-harvest technology, and expanding market connectivity, to introducing innovations that boost productivity and income for grassroots producers.

“This initiative is part of our collective vision to improve the lives of farmers and fisherfolk in Quezon,” said PEF Deputy Executive Director Cauchie Garcia, underscoring the spirit of partnership that fueled the gathering. “We also hope to gather best practices and share them across communities — not only in BonPen but eventually throughout the country.”

The long-term goal? To impact the lives of at least 12,000 farmers and fisherfolk over the next five years — a mission powered by collaboration, capacity-building, and a strong sense of bayanihan.

People's Councils: Building Power from the Ground Up

Among the most promising outcomes of the gathering was the proposal to establish local councils of people’s organizations and cooperatives in each of the three municipalities. These councils are envisioned as engines of participatory governance — driving community-led planning, policy engagement, and coordinated resource mobilization at the grassroots level.

Local government representatives offered resounding support for the plan, citing its direct alignment with DILG Memorandum Circular 2021-054, which calls on LGUs to institutionalize CSO Desks and People’s Councils to deepen civic participation in local governance.

“It’s about giving power back to the people,” one LGU official noted. “When our farmers and fisherfolk sit at the decision-making table, real change happens.”

A Model for the Nation

As the BonPen region charts a bold new path forward, the momentum generated from this historic gathering is expected to ripple far beyond its shores. Through ongoing consultations, inclusive planning, and shared accountability, the blueprint being laid down in Padre Burgos, Agdangan, and Unisan may very well serve as a model for rural transformation across the Philippines.

In a time when food security, climate resilience, and inclusive growth are national imperatives, this multi-sectoral alliance in BonPen offers a compelling testament to what can be achieved when government, civil society, and communities work hand in hand.

The seeds of transformation have been planted — and with collective effort, the harvest of hope and prosperity is well within reach.

Flavors of Vietnam: A Sensory Journey Unfolds at Sheraton Manila Bay

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Malate, Manila — June 25, 2025 — The Sheraton Manila Bay invites guests on a sensory voyage like no other as it launches “Flavors of Vietnam,” a vibrant Vietnamese food festival running from June 25 to 29, 2025, at the iconic Manila Bay Kitchen. With a special appearance by acclaimed Vietnamese culinary artist Chef Thong Nguyen, this extraordinary event promises to awaken palates, stir emotions, and bridge cultures—one dish at a time.

A Culinary Bridge Between Manila and Vietnam

The gastronomic spotlight shines brightly on Sheraton’s latest culinary celebration, with Chef Thong Nguyen—hailed for his authenticity and artistry—bringing the soul of Vietnam to every plate. From the heart of Hanoi to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh, every dish tells a story of tradition, harmony, and innovation.

Opening night on June 25 welcomed guests with a feast for both the senses and the soul. The celebration continues with lunch highlights from June 25 to 27 (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.), and dinner buffets from June 25 to 29 (6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.), offering an immersive experience of Vietnam’s culinary treasures.

Lunch Specials: A Taste of Tradition and Freshness

The midday menu, served under the theme “Noon at ‘Nam,” offers a refreshing dive into Vietnam’s lighter yet flavorful fare:

Soup: Chicken with mushroom and lotus seed (Súp thịt gà, nấm và hạt sen)

Salads:

Green mango & seafood salad with spearmint (Gỏi xoài xanh với hải sản)

Chicken with onion, bean sprouts, and laksa leaves (Gà gỏi bắp cải)

Cold Appetizers:

Cold sliced ginger, lemongrass spiced beef knuckle (Thịt bò hầm gừng, sả)

Fresh spring rolls "Nem cuốn" with shrimps & steamed pork (Nem cuốn tôm thịt)

Entrees unfold a dazzling array of textures and regional specialties:

Deep-fried Hanoi spring rolls, spicy fried prawns, soft-shell crab in tamarind, grilled “Cha ca” fish, and Bún Chả Hà Nội pork.

Showstoppers include Vietnamese baguette sandwiches, duck breast with lemongrass, and tender braised beef knuckle.

Of course, no Vietnamese feast is complete without the iconic Phở.

Dinner Buffet: A Night Market Dream Come True

Evenings at Sheraton Manila Bay transform into a bustling Vietnamese night market. Diners indulge in an expansive buffet curated with heart and heritage:

Soup: Crabmeat with green asparagus (Súp thịt cua măng tây)

Salads:

Green papaya salad with semi-dried beef (Nộm đu đủ bò khô)

Pineapple, cucumber & shrimp salad (Gỏi dứa dưa chuột tôm)

Cold Appetizers: Chicken & mushroom aspic, fresh spring rolls

Live Action and Carving Stations

Pho Station: Vietnamese Phở made to order with either beef or chicken, with all the trimmings.

Carving Station: Angus beef steaks, perfectly spiced with chili and lemongrass.

Dinner Entrées: Comfort Meets Complexity

Crispy fried prawns in zesty green orange sauce

Soft shell crab with rich tamarind emulsion

Grilled chicken glazed with honey

Galangal-braised fish filet in caramelized fish sauce

Stir-fried water spinach with garlic (Rau muống xào tỏi)

Chicken rice with mushroom and lotus seed (Cơm gà, nấm và hạt sen)

Event Details

Venue: Manila Bay Kitchen, Sheraton Manila Bay

Address: M. Adriatico corner General Malvar Street, Malate, Manila

Reservations: +632 5318 0788

Email: RESERVATIONS.MANILABAY@SHERATON.COM

More Than a Meal—An Experience

“Flavors of Vietnam” is not just a food festival—it is a celebration of culture, memory, and the universal language of flavor. Through the hands of Chef Thong Nguyen and the warm hospitality of Sheraton Manila Bay, guests are invited to taste, savor, and discover the stories of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.

As someone who has dined across Asia’s culinary capitals, I say this without hesitation: Sheraton Manila Bay’s “Flavors of Vietnam” is a must-experience event. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Vietnamese cuisine or a curious palate ready for adventure, this is your chance to savor the real deal—crafted by a master, served with flair, and celebrated with warmth.

Bravo, Chef Thong Nguyen. Vietnam never tasted so close to home.

Whether you're a food lover, an adventurer, or a seeker of authentic experiences, this is your passport to Vietnam—no flights needed.

Reserve your seat. Savor the moment. Celebrate Vietnam.

Article by Ross Flores Del Rosario, Founder of Wazzup Pilipinas – Your Premier Source for Food, Travel, Culture & Beyond.