DOJ: No expiry date for GCs

13 December 2013

The Department of Justice today issued a statement assuring all consumers that gift certificates from any establishment cannot and should not have an expiry date. This covers gift checks, and gift cards. The DOJ also reminded issuers, retailers, and merchants to honor their commitment and comply with rules and regulations.

"In this season of Christmas when our brethren are making their purchases for loved ones and colleagues, this is a simple and concrete way to make sure that spending hard earned money is not met by unsavory and deceptive practices," said Secretary of Justice Leila M. de Lima.

"Our major partner, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), already issued Administrative Order No. 10-04, Series of 2010 prohibiting any supplier from issuing gift certificates/checks/cards that contain an expiry date," she said.

Under the order, gift certificates/checks/cards shall be redeemable until used up by the bearer. All purchases of goods and services which are paid for with them are covered by promotional sales activities, loyalty programs, warranties, return policies, and discounts.

DOJ Assistant Secretary Geronimo L. Sy who heads the Office for Competition to improve economic justice mandated by E.O. No. 45 said that gift certificates are equivalent to cash and cash does not expire. "We wish everyone a safe, Merry Christmas and happy shopping holidays," he added.

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