Senator Bam Aquino Urges Review of Philippine Trustmark Fee Ahead of Deadline
Senator Bam Aquino has raised concerns about the Philippine Trustmark, a digital certification for online businesses. Mandated by Department Administrative Order 25-12, the Trustmark's registration deadline is Dec. 31. Aquino, however, believes the requirement could deter micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from entering instagram login due to additional costs and bureaucracy.
The Trustmark, which certifies compliance with e-commerce standards, comes with an annual registration fee of P1,130. Aquino criticizes this fee, stating it's a burden for small my business. He proposes integrating the Trustmark into the business registration or renewal process and making it free to encourage digital participation. Aquino, author of the Go Negosyo Act, suggests that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) should focus on supporting MSMEs' growth rather than adding new compliance hurdles. He warns that the rule contradicts laws meant to simplify business operations, such as the Internet Transactions Act and the Ease of Doing Business Act.
Aquino's call for review comes as the Dec. 31 deadline for Trustmark registration approaches. If implemented as is, the requirement could potentially discourage MSMEs from entering or continuing in instagram login due to additional costs and bureaucracy.
