DTI Trustmark in the Philippines: A Complete Guide for Online Businesses
The rapid growth of e-commerce in the Philippines has transformed how Filipinos buy and sell goods. However, this digital expansion has also increased the risks of online scams, fake sellers, and unclear dispute resolution. To address these issues, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) introduced the DTI Trustmark, a government-backed certification designed to strengthen consumer confidence and professionalize online businesses.
Under the Internet Transactions Act of 2023, the DTI Trustmark serves as a clear signal that an online seller complies with Philippine laws on consumer protection, transparency, and ethical digital trade. As of 2026, the Trustmark plays a crucial role in shaping a safer and more accountable digital economy.
Table of Contents
What Is DTI Trustmark?
The DTI Trustmark is an official digital badge issued by the Department of Trade and Industry to verified online merchants, e-marketplaces, and digital platforms operating in the Philippines. It confirms that a business is legally registered, tax-compliant, and capable of handling customer complaints through a documented internal redress mechanism.
Unlike platform-based badges such as “Preferred Seller” or “Top Rated,” the DTI Trustmark is not based on sales volume or customer ratings. Instead, it is a regulatory certification backed by national laws, particularly the Internet Transactions Act of 2023 (RA 11967) and the Consumer Act of the Philippines (RA 7394).
For consumers, the Trustmark acts as a digital equivalent of a physical storefront—assuring them that the seller is identifiable, reachable, and accountable.
DTI Trustmark Registration: How the Process Works
DTI Trustmark registration is conducted entirely online through the official Trustmark portal. The system follows a digital-first approach to make compliance easier for businesses of all sizes, including MSMEs.
The registration process typically follows these steps:
- Pre-application review
Businesses are encouraged to check their websites or online stores to ensure that pricing, refund policies, delivery terms, and contact details are clearly displayed. - Online application submission
Applicants fill out the registration form and upload all required documents, including a sworn undertaking to comply with e-commerce laws. - Evaluation and verification
The DTI E-Commerce Bureau reviews the application, verifies documents, and checks the listed online platforms for policy consistency. - Payment of fees
Once approved, the applicant receives a Statement of Account and pays the applicable fees. - Issuance of Trustmark
The DTI issues the Trustmark badge, a unique 14-digit security number, and an official certificate. The business is then listed in the Online Business Database (OBD).
The entire evaluation process usually takes around seven working days, provided all documents are complete.
DTI Trustmark Requirements for Online Businesses
Meeting the DTI Trustmark requirements involves proving both legal existence and operational readiness. The requirements are designed to prevent fraudulent sellers from entering the system while ensuring legitimate businesses can scale safely.
Legal and Tax Registration Documents
Applicants must submit valid registration documents depending on their business type:
- DTI Business Name Registration (for sole proprietors)
- SEC Certificate of Incorporation (for corporations)
- CDA Certificate of Registration (for cooperatives)
In addition, all applicants must provide a BIR Certificate of Registration (Form 2303) reflecting their correct line of business, including online retail or digital services.
Accepted Government-Issued IDs
To verify identity, the DTI accepts the following IDs as of January 2026:
- Philippine Passport
- PhilSys National ID
- Driver’s License
- SSS UMID
- TIN ID with photo and signature
- Alien Certificate of Registration (for foreign nationals)
List of Online Sales Channels
Applicants must declare all websites, e-commerce platforms, and social media accounts used for selling. The Trustmark can only be displayed on verified channels, preventing misuse or badge cloning.
Internal Redress Mechanism (IRM)
One of the most important requirements is a written Internal Redress Mechanism (IRM). This document explains how customer complaints are handled, including:
- How complaints are filed
- Response time (usually within 48 hours)
- Investigation and resolution process
- Refund, replacement, or repair options
- Escalation to DTI if unresolved
The IRM ensures that consumers have a clear and fair path to resolve disputes.
Fees and Validity of the DTI Trustmark
The DTI applies a tiered fee structure to support MSMEs and encourage formalization:
- Micro enterprises and BMBEs: Application fee waived (only minimal administrative fees apply)
- Small enterprises: Discounted application fee
- Medium and large enterprises: Standard application fee
The Trustmark is valid for one year and must be renewed before expiration to avoid removal from the Online Business Database.
Is DTI Trustmark Mandatory in 2026?
As of 2026, DTI Trustmark registration remains voluntary. The DTI extended the voluntary period until December 31, 2026, following feedback from MSMEs and online sellers concerned about compliance costs.
Despite being voluntary, adoption continues to grow. Major platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop actively encourage sellers to obtain the Trustmark, as consumers increasingly prefer verified merchants.
Benefits of Having a DTI Trustmark
Holding a DTI Trustmark offers tangible advantages beyond consumer trust:
- Faster processing of other DTI applications
- Priority access to MSME support programs
- Eligibility for DTI-sponsored trade fairs
- Improved credibility on e-commerce platforms
- Easier dispute resolution with DTI assistance
For serious online sellers, the Trustmark is becoming a competitive advantage rather than a regulatory burden.
How Consumers Can Verify a DTI Trustmark
Consumers can verify a Trustmark by:
Visiting this page: https://trustmark.dti.gov.ph/obd
- Scanning the QR code on the badge
- Entering the 14-digit security number on the Trustmark portal
Verification redirects users to the Online Business Database, where they can view the merchant’s current status, registered name, and authorized selling platforms.
Conclusion
The DTI Trustmark represents a major step toward a more transparent and professional Philippine e-commerce ecosystem. By combining legal verification, tax compliance, and consumer protection standards, it creates a balanced system that benefits both buyers and legitimate sellers.
While registration remains voluntary in 2026, market behavior suggests that trust and credibility are becoming essential for online success. For businesses looking to scale sustainably, the DTI Trustmark is no longer just a badge—it is a foundation for long-term digital legitimacy in the Philippines.