Regulations sought on "ukay-ukay" trade

A Provincial Board member has requested the mayors of component cities and municipalities of Cebu province to institute measures that will monitor and regulate all used clothing or "ukay-ukay" businesses in their respective municipalities.

PB member Jose Mari Gastardo in a resolution said Cebu is now known as the capital of the used clothing or ukay-ukay business. He said a great number of Cebuanos have learned to patronize second-hand clothing which comes cheaper than new clothing.

But Gastardo said this kind of business has encouraged smuggling activities, tax evasion and unfair trade competition that may kill the garments industry and force the closure of some department stores.

The Provincial Board member said the use of ukay-ukay clothing needs further investigation by the Department of Health and other government agencies concerns following reports that it has potential health hazards especially when these are not subjected to proper sanitary treatment.

"With the ukay-ukay clothing business getting especially more popular in the towns, it rests as duty and obligation upon the concerned authorities in the municipalities and component cities of the province to institute appropriate measures," Gastardo said.

He stressed the need to ensure the preservation of the interest of the state and the protection of their respective constituents from the adverse effects of the used clothing.

According to Gastardo, there is a need for local government units to require all those involved the used clothing business to secure the necessary permits and clearances from the concerned agencies.

He further said that they should also adhere strictly to the provisions of applicable laws under the Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Health and other agencies concerned. - Jose P. Sollano