By Brian Campued
With less than 70 days before Christmas Day and as consumers begin buying holiday decorations, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched the first Philippine National Standard (PNS) for “parol” or lanterns to ensure that the iconic Yuletide ornaments are safe, durable, and feature high-quality craftsmanship.
The DTI launched the PNS in San Fernando City, Pampanga—known to be the “Home of the Giant Lanterns” and the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines”—on Oct. 13, coinciding with the observance of the Consumer Welfare Month.
According to DTI, the PNS 2296-1:2025 specifies the construction and marking requirements for parols, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s goal to empower local industries and ensure consumer protection.
Developed in collaboration with UL Standards & Engagement (ULSE), DTI Sec. Cristina Roque said the national standard for Philippine-made lanterns underscores the government’s support for local manufacturers under the “Tatak Pinoy” brand.
“More than ensuring product safety, these standards uplift our parol makers whose craftsmanship reflects Filipino pride,” Roque said as quoted in a DTI press release Thursday.
“By guiding them toward quality and reliability, we empower their businesses to grow and thrive globally while protecting Filipino consumers.”
DTI Fair Trade Group Assistant Secretary and Supervising Head lawyer Regino Mallari Jr. said the PNS for parols also ensures the sustainability of the lantern-making industry in the country.
“Bagaman ito ay boluntaryo at hindi sapilitan, nagbibigay ito ng malinaw na gabay para sa mga manufacturer upang makalikha ng mga produktong dekalidad, ligtas, at maaasahan para sa mga mamimili,” Mallari said.
San Fernando City Mayor Vilma Balle-Caluag noted that setting national standards also helps local lantern makers expand their market and boost sales.
-jpv
