Shady phone dealers sell with no warranty

Apart from the widespread problem of stolen cellular phones being resold, reports now have it that some unscrupulous mobile phone dealers have a new modus operandi -selling mobile phones on a no-warranty basis.

This prompted councilor Edgardo Labella to propose a measure penalizing these sellers of no-warranty mobile phones.

"The selling of mobile phones without express warranty or not accompanied by warranty certificates within the territorial jurisdiction of Cebu City shall be curtailed," Labella said.

Labella is the chairman of the committee on laws, ordinances, good government and public accountability in the city council.

"It is appropriate to promptly address the selling of no-warranty mobile phones so that the mobile phone-buying public will be shielded against deceptive, unfair and unconscionable sales acts and practices," he added.

In this illegal practice, according to Labella the consumers who are not provided with the required warranties are at a disadvantage compared to the seller.

Under the proposed ordinance, if approved by the council, the violators will be fined P1,500 for the first offense. A penalty of P3,500 and P5,000 and or revocation of business permit and license for the second and third offense, respectively, awaits the dealer. - Garry B. Lao