A new form of weighing scam has been uncovered in public markets in Dagupan City where some vendors allegedly use modified containers to increase the weight of goods.

In a video shared by authorities, a member of the Task Force Anti-Littering showed what appeared to be two plastic basins used on a weighing scale, but were actually four basins glued together to look like only two. The setup adds extra weight, making customers pay more.

Authorities said the scheme is meant to deceive buyers by inflating the weight of products.

At least 10 vendors from Magsaysay Fish Market and Malimgas Public Market were caught using defective or tampered weighing devices.

Task Force Anti-Littering chief Jong Serna said repeat violators would no longer be allowed to sell.

“Unang-una sa lahat, ilang beses nang may blotter siya sa barangay at sa Anti-Littering, kaya pinagbawalan na natin sila at talagang hindi na sila makapagtitinda,” he said.

Some vendors also condemned the practice, saying it harms customer trust.

“Dapat po, bago mag-umpisa, naka-level ‘yung timbangan at basket niya. Mas importante po ‘yun para balikan tayo ng mga customer,” Rio Tuliao, a vendor, said..

Another vendor, Mary Ann Viernes, said the act is clearly intentional.

“Kasi hindi naman gamit ang nandadaya eh, mismong tao na. Hindi tama ‘yun. Kaya dapat huwag na nilang gawin,” she said.

Authorities said they will tighten inspections of weighing scales in markets to prevent further cases of fraud.