Online trading gains ground in Phl despite security issues

CEBU, Philippines - Online trading, which is a growing trend in the marketplace, is slowly gaining ground in the Philippines as Filipinos have noticeably become more inclined to mobile technology.

Cebu, being known as an information technology hub, is a potential market for online buy-and-sell trading considering that more people here are tech-savvy, said Regina Aguilar, senior marketing manager of OLX (Online Exchange) Cebu.

However, Aguilar said that while most people see online trading as a safe venture, still there are reservations that are apparent when it comes to security reasons.     

Although, a significant number of consumers shy away from online shopping because of security issues, Aguilar noted that the availability of smart phones has contributed to the growth of this new business trend here in the Philippines.

Jean Magboo, the company's corporate communications supervisor, said the possibility of getting involved into fraud and theft is one of the major negative truths about shopping on the web.

Security issue

"It's really more on the security issue," she noted, "and it's actually a legitimate concern among buyers and sellers as well."

Aguilar advised buyers to be always alert and vigilant, explaining that they have to see the product description and know the seller's profile and past transactions. People should also be aware of security measures to protect themselves in online transactions, she added.

"Although not all items there are fake and fraud, you just have to be responsible at all times," the manager said, adding that as consumers they have the right to refuse from buying if they think the product quality is doubtful.

"By the time you meet with the seller, push your right to say 'No' because that's part of the deal," she further added.

Generally, online negotiation happens between a buyer and a seller. For instance, a potential web dealer takes photo of the item he wants to sell and then posts it on the classified ads website with a description and price. On the other hand, should a shopper want to haggle for a fair price for an item he/she wants to buy, it is better done over the phone.

Personal meeting

Personal interaction is key to avoid falling prey to scammers,  Aguilar said, noting that they should also meet at a safe public place that has high traffic to make the situation at ease for both the buyer and seller.

It's also a safer option to bring someone or a buddy when meeting the person, and make sure to meet during the day for extra security. Other online shops offer delivery of purchased items directly to buyer.

Aguilar said the trading of used or second-hand items is the most trendy now as more people see the advantage of earning from these articles.

Like in the case of OLX, one of the country's leading buy and sell website, it supports for a location-based transaction where the buyer and seller both reside in the same area for more convenience. 

Aguilar claimed that the possibility of fraud cases is hardly avoidable, however she said, they are aggressive in educating people--through their tips online--on how they can have a safe and successful shopping on the web.

On the other hand, Magboo suggests sellers to be upfront in telling the condition of their item and take a photo that is presentable and real.

"You have to manage the expectation of your buyer," she said.

Jillian Oco of OLX also said the young professionals or the yuppies are the ones mostly involved in this kind of business however, anybody can actually get into this business to earn extra money.

They said people actually have a lot of options as to where they can sell and buy but the convenience of technology suggests that the world of online classifieds is the way to go. (FREEMAN)