The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) is bringing intellectual property (IP) services directly to Filipino entrepreneurs through an intensified nationwide series of activities in celebration of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Week, observed during the second week of July.
In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), local government units (LGUs), state universities and colleges and industry groups, IPOPHL is rolling out nearly 30 activities nationwide throughout July to help MSMEs protect and grow their businesses through IP.
Several events will feature IPOPHL’s IP clinics and help desks, allowing entrepreneurs to receive personalized guidance on trademark applications, copyright, patents, industrial designs and other IP services.
The activities will also provide IP orientations, business clinics, one-on-one consultations and specialized seminars on geographical indications (GIs), collective marks, e-commerce protection, product certification and market access.
“MSMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy, and intellectual property is one of the most practical tools they can use to build stronger brands, compete in larger markets and create lasting business value,” said IPOPHL Director General Teodoro C. Pascua.
The intensified campaign also highlights the growing role of the country’s 16 Intellectual Property Satellite Offices (IPSOs), which serve as accessible hubs for IP information, awareness and frontline assistance outside Metro Manila.
“Through our nationwide network of partners and IPSOs, we are making IP more accessible so entrepreneurs can confidently protect their innovations, products and brands wherever they are in the country.”
Earlier this month, IPOPHL promoted collective marks and GIs for Romblon’s marble industry players, provided trademark registration assistance to entrepreneurs in La Union, conducted a Juana Make a Mark seminar for women-led MSMEs in Pasig City, held IP orientations integrated into regional MSME summits and offered support through its IP help desks.
For the remainder of July, IPOPHL and its partners will conduct activities in Baguio City, Bohol, Butuan City, Cavite, Guimaras, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Laguna, Leyte, Marinduque, Northern Samar, Pampanga, Quezon, Romblon, Surigao del Norte and Zamboanga City, as well as other key locations nationwide.
