Understanding DAO No. 25-12: The New Rules on E-Commerce Trustmark in the Philippines
- Yasser Aureada
- Sep 14
- 3 min read
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently issued Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 25-12, Series of 2025, which serves as an addendum to DAO No. 25-07 (2025). This new regulation introduces critical updates on the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark (Trustmark), a system designed to strengthen consumer protection and build trust in online transactions.
As the digital marketplace continues to grow, this order is set to impact online merchants, e-retailers, e-marketplaces, and digital platforms across the country. Here’s what you need to know.
What is the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark?
The Trustmark is not a license or permit to engage in e-commerce. Instead, it is a symbol of compliance—signifying that the products, goods, or services sold by a holder comply with applicable standards and good e-commerce practices.
According to Section 3 of DAO25-07 (2025), it is meant to assure consumers that online businesses carrying the Trustmark operate with transparency, safety, and fairness.
Who Needs to Register?
Under DAO No. 25-12, registration is now mandatory for:
Online merchants
E-retailers
E-marketplaces
Digital platforms
This means that any business or platform intending to use the internet for commercial purposes must register with the DTI E-Commerce Bureau (DTI-ECB) and secure the Trustmark.
Fees and Exemptions
The order clarifies the schedule of fees applicable to registrants. However, there are exemptions:
Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) registered with the DTI are exempted from paying the initial application fee, although they remain subject to other compliance requirements.
The fees collected will be used to maintain the online registration system and ensure the effective enforcement of the Trustmark regulations.
Post-Registration Compliance
The Trustmark does not exempt holders from other regulatory obligations. Businesses must still comply with laws such as:
RA 7394 – Consumer Act of the Philippines
RA 4109 – Standards Law
RA 11900 – Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act
RA 11967 – Internet Transactions Act, and other trade and industry laws
Digital platforms and e-marketplaces also bear responsibility to monitor their merchants’ listings and remove products or services that violate these laws.
Regulated Products and Services
DAO No. 25-12 requires Trustmark holders to submit government-issued licenses or permits for regulated goods before offering them online. The DTI-ECB will maintain a list of regulated products, serving as a public reference to verify compliance.
Failure to comply may result in a Formal Charge and possible revocation of the Trustmark.
Transition Period
All covered businesses must secure their Trustmark by September 30, 2025. Pending applications filed on or before this deadline must clearly display a statement on their website or online store indicating that their Trustmark application is under review.
Key Takeaways for Businesses
Mandatory Registration – All online sellers and platforms must register for the Trustmark.
Compliance Obligations – Registration is just the first step; ongoing compliance with consumer and trade laws is required.
Stricter Monitoring – Both merchants and platforms will be held accountable for online violations. Transition Deadline – September 30, 2025 is a critical date for compliance.
Final Thoughts
DAO No. 25-12 reinforces the Philippine government’s push for a safe and trustworthy digital economy. For businesses, securing the Trustmark is not only a legal obligation but also a way to earn consumer confidence in a competitive online marketplace.
At Aureada CPA Law Firm, we assist businesses in navigating these new regulations—whether it’s understanding the requirements, preparing compliance documents, or addressing post-registration obligations.
If your business is engaged in e-commerce, now is the time to prepare.
📞 Contact us today to ensure your compliance with DAO No. 25-12 and other e-commerce regulations.Key Takeaways for Businesses
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