The policemen, armed with search warrants, conducted enforcement operations and seized fake Maggi Magic Sarap sold in a total of 44 public market stalls in the abovementioned areas.

The manufacture and sale of fake products are in violations of Republic Act (RA) 8293, or the Intellectual Property Code, and RA 9711, or the Food and Drug Administration Act.  Both violations are punishable by imprisonment of two to five years for RA 8293 and one to 10 years for RA 9711. Those found guilty will, likewise, be fined a penalty of from P50,000 to P500,000.

These public market stalls have been buying fake Maggi products from illegal operators who sell these fake products at low prices. The public market stall owners then sell these fakes to unsuspecting consumers at regular retail prices. 

(Zaff Solmerin)