Trustmark: What it Means to One’s Online Business

By: Atty. Mark Gorriceta & Atty. Micaela V. Galvez

August 8, 2025 – Online shopping has revolutionized consumer behavior worldwide, and the Philippines is no exception. In 2023, the Internet Transactions Act (ITA) aimed to foster trust between online merchants and consumers while spurring growth in the Philippine digital economy.

On June 20, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced the ITA is now in effect, following the conclusion of its transitory period. This enabled DTI to order the removal of online listings of illegal goods and services and hold digital platforms accountable for violations if they fail to take action.

One of the ITA’s key features is the creation of the e-commerce Bureau, which is responsible for establishing an Online Business Database (OBD) of information on all registered digital platforms, e-marketplaces, e-retailers and online merchants.

While the OBD is still under development, the website for the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark is already operational and accessible.

A trustmark or a digital badge is issued in accordance with the ITA, signifying that one’s business adheres to good e-commerce practices and complies with applicable laws and regulations.

However, a Trustmark is not a license or permit to operate, and does not exempt one’s business from other legal requirements.

In any case, having it can boost one’s online business credibility.

To apply, businesses must complete the online application form available on the trustmark website and submit supporting documents, which include, but are not limited to:

• Valid business registration certificate from the DTI.
• Business registration certificates from the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the Cooperative Development Authority, as applicable.
• BIR Certificate of Registration reflecting the registered business or trade name incentives for trustmark holders.
• Trustmark holders are entitled to a variety of benefits designed to encourage wider adoption and voluntary compliance with the ITA. These incentives, outlined by the DTI, include:
• Priority access to DTI programs and services, such as support for micro, small and medium enterprises, market access and business matching opportunities.
• Expedited processing of permits and certifications, including business name registration and product clearances.
• Eligibility to participate in DTI-led capacity-building activities, trade fairs and consumer awareness campaigns.
• Opportunities for recognition through awards or citations from the DTI.
• Increased visibility and consumer trust through inclusion in official promotional campaigns and digital trust activities.
• Access to DTI’s facilitation or redress mechanisms for consumer concerns, complementing existing legal remedies under the ITA and other laws.

Suspension, revocation

The trustmark may be suspended or revoked, depending on the nature and severity of the violations. Suspension typically applies to curable or procedural issues and remains in effect until the matter is resolved.

Revocation, on the other hand, is warranted in cases of fraud, gross or repeated violations, continued noncompliance after suspension, or actions that compromise the trustmark’s integrity and objectives.

Specific grounds for revocation include:

• Providing false or fraudulent information during application or renewal.
• Misuse or unauthorized display of the trustmark.
• Failure to meet reporting and renewal obligations.
• Violations of consumer protection or e-commerce laws.
• Unresolved customer complaints.
• Noncooperation with DTI enforcement actions.
• Similar infractions.

The process involves a fair due process, with a written notice sent to the holder and a 15-day period to respond. The Enforcement and Compliance Bureau may investigate and, in urgent situations, issue a preventive suspension.

Once suspended or revoked, the trustmark holder must immediately cease using it, and will be removed or reclassified in the Online Business Directory, and will forfeit all associated benefits.

Revoked holders can reapply after six months, provided they undergo reevaluation and demonstrate compliance.

Suspended holders may request reinstatement upon fulfilling specified remedial requirements.

The DTI maintains the right to monitor trustmark use, enforce its intellectual property rights and impose sanctions for any unauthorized or infringing actions.

The digital landscape is continuously evolving, and so are its regulations. Staying informed about new laws and their implementation is essential for maintaining compliance.

By adopting a proactive approach, one’s business can be prepared to seize emerging opportunities and thrive in the dynamic Philippine e-commerce ecosystem.

This article was also published under The Manila Time You may find the full article here: Trustmark: What it means to one’s online business | The Manila Times