They’re used to being stepped on, walked over, and so taken for granted that when the new DTI proposed to unlevel the playing field, they were really, really floored!

The Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association cannot understand why Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo would now exempt imported tiles from a rule that has been there, under our feet, for years. Why allow imported tiles to come in without passing the mandatory quality tests that local makers continue to be subjected to, on a daily basis?

According to Benjie Laurel, president of the association, members employ 2,000 men and women and contribute P2 billion yearly to the economy. Their products must conform to the national standard and do not bend, rupture or break.

After a flood, substandard tiles could cause people to slip, stumble, break a bone here and there.

Chipped, cracked, ruptured tiles also gather mold and bacteria that spread infection.

The danger is such that restaurant owners and food proccessors cannot obtain a permit to operate until their tiles have been checked and marked.

“Why are the people in DTI discriminating against our own tile makers?

Safety is an issue that cannot be treated lightly,” said Mr. Laurel.

Let’s have a safe floor show, Secretary DTI!