Last materially reviewed: September 3, 2026
Direct Answer
Philippine online sellers should clearly disclose enough information for consumers to identify the merchant, understand the offer, contact the business and know the applicable terms before purchase. The Internet Transactions Act of 2023 and its implementing rules strengthen transparency and accountability for internet transactions, while existing consumer, tax and privacy rules add further disclosure duties.
Key Takeaways
- Do not hide the merchant’s identity behind a social-media handle alone.
- Display reliable contact information and business details where required.
- State total prices and material charges clearly before checkout.
- Publish return, refund, cancellation and complaint procedures that match actual operations.
- Keep product and service claims accurate and supportable.
What information should an online seller make easy to find?
Depending on the business and selling channel, disclosures should cover the merchant or business name, contact details, address or other legally required business information, product or service description, total price, delivery or fulfillment terms, payment conditions, return and refund policy, complaint mechanism and relevant registration information.
Product and service information
Descriptions should be accurate enough for the buyer to make an informed decision. Do not omit limitations, material conditions, subscription terms, recurring charges, delivery restrictions or other facts that would change a reasonable customer’s decision.
Pricing transparency
Show the selling price and disclose additional mandatory charges before the consumer commits to the transaction. Avoid drip pricing or presenting unavoidable charges only after the customer has invested significant time in checkout.
Business identity and contactability
Consumers should be able to identify and contact the merchant. Online stores should also comply with current BIR rules on proof-of-registration display and any other registration badges or seals applicable to the business.
Returns, refunds and complaints
Publish a policy that explains what the customer should do, applicable timeframes, evidence required and how the business will respond. A policy cannot remove rights provided by law. See E-Commerce Returns, Refunds and Consumer Rights Philippines.
Privacy notice
If the seller collects names, addresses, phone numbers, IDs, payment-related information or other personal data, the privacy notice should explain the relevant processing. See Privacy Notice Requirements Philippines.
Marketplace versus own website
Marketplace platforms may provide standard seller-profile and policy fields, but merchants remain responsible for the information they provide and for obligations that apply to their business. Sellers operating their own websites need to design these disclosures directly into the customer journey.
Practical disclosure checklist
- Business or merchant identity
- Contact channel
- Accurate product/service description
- Total price and mandatory charges
- Delivery or performance terms
- Payment terms
- Return/refund/cancellation rules
- Complaint and redress process
- Privacy notice
- Required registration proof or badges
FAQs
Can an online seller use only a Facebook page name?
A page name alone may not satisfy applicable business, tax and consumer transparency requirements. The seller should disclose the legally relevant business information required for its setup.
Must prices include delivery?
Delivery may be separate, but mandatory charges should be disclosed clearly before the buyer commits to purchase.
Can a seller write ‘no refunds’?
A policy cannot override mandatory consumer rights. The actual legal entitlement depends on the facts and applicable rules.
Related Cybercode Guides
- Internet Transactions Act Philippines
- Website Legal Requirements Philippines
- BIR Registration for Online Sellers