The Philippines’ intellectual property system dates back well into the Spanish and American colonial

periods, earning the Philippines the reputation as among the first Asian countries to adopt laws on
intellectual property.
The following is a brief history of the development of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines,
and its role in the evolution of the intellectual property system.

1980s - 1997 A first mover in modernisation

The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL)’s immediate predecessor was the Bureau of
Patents, Trademarks and Technology Transfer (BPTTT), created via an executive order of President
Corazon C. Aquino to re-organise the Department of Trade and Industry. Through this EO, the Philippine
Patent Office - a post-independence agency created by President Manuel A. Roxas - was converted to the
BPTT, and the Technology Transfer Board (an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry)
was abolished, with its functions adopted by the BPTT.
In this decade, the BPTTT slowly expanded, creating a Public Information and Assistance Unit to serve
the public’s nascent interest in intellectual property information such as in patents, trademarks, and
procedures in registration.
The 1990s saw the increasing significance and advancement of the BPTTT in terms of function and
competence: it was chosen as a member of the Inter-agency Committee on Intellectual Property Rights
(PIAC-IPR), a project under the Office of the President of the Philippines to scale up promotion and
protection of IPR.
The BPTT, notably, became a key advisor in the Philippine government’s negotiation of the Trade-Related
Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) under the General Agreement on Tariff and Trade.
Atty. Emma C. Francisco, in 1996, took the reins from Atty. Ignacio S. Sapalo and became the first
woman director of the BPTTT.
From the outset, Bureau Director General Emma Francisco enacted a vision of an automated and
modernised intellectual property administration system: launching the Trademark Word Search System,
with assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency.

1997 - 2004 The IP Code Onwards

In the background of these strategic moves to institutionalise intellectual property administration, the
consolidation of intellectual property into legislation was unfolding as well. The Intellectual Property
Code of the Philippines, Republic Act 8293, authored by the late Senator Raul S. Roco, was signed into
law in June 6, 1997 and took effect on January 1, 1998.
With the IP Code of the Philippines enacted, BPTTT was effectively abolished, and the Intellectual
Property Office of the Philippines was instituted. IPOPHL adopted and expanded the functions of the
BPTTT, and continued to be led by Atty. Emma Francisco now with the designation of Director General
of the IPOPHL.
The office continued the surge towards modernisation, launching the Philpat CD-ROM in 1998, and
concluding the Project Type Technical Cooperation for Modernization of Industrial Property
Administration agreement with JICA.
It was also in the early 2000s that IT systems for patent administration and patent application retrieval
were launched, along with enhancement of capabilities in trademark image search, trademark
administration, and internet access to examiners - improving the efficiency of the new agency.
In 2001, the Philippines, through IPOPHL, made strides to keep its intellectual property system adherent
to international standards, becoming a member of the World Intellectual Property Organisation, and
became a contracting party to the Patent Cooperation Treaty.

2005 - 2009 Intellectual Property as a tool for development

In 2005, the administration of the intellectual property system as well as the office’s function took a
developmental approach, with the succession of Atty. Adrian S. Cristobal Jr. as the second Director
General.
In this period, a policy/International relations unit was created to enable the agency to take the lead on
domestic and international IP policy. The unit produced policy papers, studies, comments on legislation,
draft bills pertaining to intellectual property rights and became the main resource of the country’s
missions in Geneva and in DTI’s bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations.
Apart from this stronger role in IP policy-creation, the enforcement mandate of the IPOPHL was fortified
- it was in 2008 that Inter-agency IP task force, the National Committee on Intellectual Property rights
was created via Executive Order 736. IPOPHL led the coordination of this inter-agency body and actively
engaged government’s law enforcement sector through the NCIPR in pursuit of counterfeiters and
vendors of pirated goods.
These efforts led to the improvement of the Philippines’ standing in the United States Trade
Representative Office’s Watch List - from the Priority Watch List to the regular Watch List.
It was also during this stage in the agency’s development that the initiative to craft a National Intellectual
Property Strategy (NIPS) was first incepted. The first version of the NIPS was formally presented to
President Macapagal Arroyo and launched under the umbrella program of the DOST’s “Filipinnovation,”
the country’s innovation strategy.
Signalling IPOPHL’s foresight of the potential of growth areas outside of Metro Manila, in 2008 it turned
its eyes towards the provinces and launched the Intellectual Property Fields Operations Unit to establish
the Intellectual Property Satellite Offices (IPSOs) to reach out and serve the needs of inventors, IP
creators, and entrepreneurs.
This development significantly boosted IP applications and introduced the array of IP services to the
uninitiated and untapped provinces outside Metro Manila.

2010 - 2014 Building an IP community

A resurgence in modernisation and continued enforcement campaign and greater engagement with the
academic sector defined IPOPHL’s direction under the Director General Atty. Ricardo Blancaflor.
In 2012, IPOPHL began implementation of an efficiency-enhancing system that automated the end-to-end
processing of IP applications from from filing to registration, including publications, printing of
certificates and post-registration/post-granting.
This was known as the Industrial Property Automation System (IPAS) instituted in partnership with the
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and revolutionised the processing of IP applications.
ITSOs, or the Innovation and Technology Support Offices were inaugurated at this time, as the IPOPHL
aimed to spread its expertise and technical knowledge - particularly in patent drafting and search - to
IPOPHL’s partners in the academe and research sectors.
IPOPHL’s coordination and leadership on enforcement matters did not take a backseat to the agency’s
other initiatives but rather saw a reinvigoration in this period: IPOPHL secured the support fund of P 10
million from the Office of the President for the National Committee of Intellectual Property Rights
(NCIPR)’s operational requirements. It was at this time that the IPOPHL seized its biggest haul of
counterfeit and pirated goods, with the seized amount reaching P 13 billion.
During this time, IPOPHL also initiated discussions with Greenhills Shopping Center for a development-
oriented approach in curbing the continued sales of counterfeit and pirated goods.
2015- present Forging Ahead in the global IP Community
Modernisation of services and facilities continues to be a landmark of the Intellectual Property Office of
the Philippines’ services: in 2016, the array of online filing application facilities were launched to
eTMFile, eIDFile and the eUMFile.
In an effort to facilitate and improve the system of classification of goods and services in trademark
applications, IPOPHL joined at least 62 other countries and organisations in using TMClass in 2016. The
online tool helps users to correctly classifying goods and services when filing a trade mark, and has a
function that aids the user translate terms across 42 languages to check compatibility in participating IP
offices. IPOPHL was already part of Asean TMClass.
In 2017, the IPOPHL’s effort in building its expertise and proficiency in patent search and examination
led to the it gaining unanimous designation by the World Intellectual Property Organisation as the second
International Searching Authority/International Preliminary Examination Authority (ISA/IPEA) in Asean.
By 2019, it hopes to begin operating as an ISA/IPEA and become the ISA/IPEA of choice of applicants in
the region.
 OVERVIEW OF THE IP SYSTEM
The intellectual property (IP) system relates to rights and obligations, as well as privileges
and incentives--all rooted from the creation and protection of IP, which “refers to creations of the
mind: inventions; literary and artistic works; and symbols, names, and images used in
commerce.”

IP rights as basic human rights involve “the right to benefit from the protection of moral and
material interests resulting from authorship of scientific, literary, or artistic productions.” (Art.
27, Universal Declaration of Human Rights). Meanwhile, the 1987 Philippine Constitution
mandates their protection “particularly when beneficial to the people”. (Art. XIV, Sec. 13) In the
midst of these seemingly conflicting interests of the creators and innovators and the public, the
system seeks to strike a balance between them through legal safeguards.

Otherwise put, the system seeks to provide an environment in which everyone benefits from
one’s creativity ad innovation, especially since IP is a tool for economic and socio-cultural
development.

WHY PROMOTE AND PROTECT IP?

There are several compelling reasons. First, the progress and well-being of humanity rest on its
capacity to create and invent new works in the areas of technology and culture. Second, the legal
protection of new creations encourages the commitment of additional resources for further
innovation. Third, the promotion and protection of intellectual property spurs economic growth,
creates new jobs and industries, and enhances the quality and enjoyment of life. -WIPO
Publication 450

MANDATE & FUNCTION

IPOPHL is the government agency mandated to administer and implement State policies on intellectual
property (IP) to strengthen the protection of IP rights in the country.

Coined as the "DREAM" mandate, IPOPHL performs the following functions to protect and secure the
exclusive rights of scientists, inventors, artists and other gifted citizens to their intellectual property and
creations.

Development-Oriented
Promote the use of patent information as a tool for technological development

Regulatory
 Examine applications and grant patents, or register utility models, industrial designs,
trademarks, geographical indication, and integrated circuits;
 Help protect copyright by assisting in the facilitation of deposit of work with the National
Library
 Register technology transfer arrangements
Enforcement
 Undertake enforcement functions supported by concerned agencies such a the PNP,
NBI, Customs, OMB, LGUs, etc.
 Conduct visits during reasonable hours to establishments and businesses engaging in activities
violating IPRs and provisions of the IP Code based on report, information or complaint received
by the Office.

Adjudicatory
 Hear and decide cases relating to:
 violations of IP Rights
 Cancellations and oppositions to registration
 Compulsory licensing
 Settle disputes involving technology transfer payments

Policy-Making
 Coordinate with relevant government agencies and the private sector efforts to formulate and
implement plans and policies to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights in the
country.
 Develop and implement strategies to promote and facilitate technology transfer

VISION
A progressive Philippines using intellectual property assets for inclusive economic and social
development by 2030.

MISSION
We commit to build an inclusive intellectual property system serving the needs of Filipinos.

CORE VALUES
PATRIOTISM
As citizens of the Philippines, the employees and leaders of IPOPHL value patriotism.

As employees, we adhere to all laws, government rules and regulations and office policies. We take pride
in the work and achievements of our co-workers. We utilize the Filipino language and local dialects in
information materials. We include the singing of the national anthem in office events and activities. We
protect, patronize, and promote the Intellectual Property Rights of Filipinos. We attend and participate
actively in all flag ceremonies. We participate in national holiday celebrations. We take pride in being a
government employee and a Filipino. We participate in socio-civic activities that will uplift the quality of
life of other people.

As leaders, we ensure the uniform implementation of rules, regulations, and policies. We implement the
“no noon break policy.” We ensure that flag ceremonies are timely and regularly conducted. We ensure
the celebration of national events are religiously observed and conducted in the organization. We serve as
role models in demonstrating patriotism among employees, We provide opportunities for employees to
fulfill their socio-civic responsibility at a reasonable time.

INTEGRITY
As holders of the public trust, the employees and leaders of IPOPHL value integrity.

As employees, we observe honesty and decency in the performance of duties. We avoid conflicts of
interest. We adhere to the “no gift policy.” We submit our fairly accomplished SALN on time. We use
government resources for official business only. We practice openness and transparency. We conform
with the professional code of ethics. We demonstrate integrity even outside the organization. We respect
intellectual property rights.

As leaders, we monitor and guard against loafing and moonlighting. We monitor and guard employees
against conflict of interest. We set ourselves as role models of integrity to employees. We demonstrate
moral courage, ethical strength, and trustworthiness.

EXCELLENCE
As representatives of the Philippine government, the employees and leaders of IPOPHL value excellence
in their work.

As employees, we participate actively in organizational projects and initiatives. We pursue and practice
continuing education and capacity building. We work towards exceeding units’ targets. We operationalize
the Quality Manage System (QMS) in operations. We respond immediately and appropriately to clients’
needs. We seek to understand and satisfy customer needs. We determine and satisfy client needs and
expectations. We seek to engage in activities that provide continuous career and self-development. We
seek to continuously improve our work process. We keep abreast of enabling technologies and good
practices. We anticipate and prepare for possible future problems. We anticipate the needs and wants of
stakeholders and customers. We continuously seek improvement in the work processes for the delivery of
quality service. We practice complete staff work.
As leaders, we create and sustain a culture of excellence in the organization. We manage time and
resources efficiently and effectively. We institutionalize monitoring on feedback mechanism. We pursue
continuing education on managerial skills and competencies. We institutionalize rewards-and-incentives
systems. We facilitate the active participation of employees in projects and initiatives. We create
opportunities for employees in projects and initiatives. W create opportunities for employees to develop
their interests and expertise. We identify and adopt global best practices and innovative approaches. We
institutionalize the Quality Management System (QMS). We undertake third party audits. We enable our
staff to exceed targets. We assess and mitigate risk. We conduct market intelligence.

SPIRITUALITY
As God-fearing people who aim to do good, the employees and leaders of IPOPHL value spirituality.

As employees, we promote good will. We observes deference to authority. We promote peace, love, and
unity. We use courteous language. We promote the welfare of others. We give thanks for all blessings.
We respect different beliefs and religious practices. We understand the weaknesses of others. We obey
God’s commandments. We promote goodness among members of the organization. We use a positive
approach in settling disputes or misunderstandings. We see positive things in negative situations.

As leaders, we inspire subordinates to be God-fearing. We provide opportunity for employees to engage

in the practice of their faith at a reasonable time. We radiate positivism in words and deeds to employees.

COLLABORATION AND TEAMWORK

As members of a community, the employees and leaders of IPOPHL value collaboration and teamwork.

As employees, we agree and adhere to a common vision and goal. We put the common interest of the
team over personal interest. We are sensitive to the feelings of others. We act with compassion. We
demonstrate tolerance and respect for other’s opinion. We demonstrate sincerity and truthfulness to self
and others. We support team endeavors. We offer help to others when needed. We respect leaders and co-
workers. We understand others’ limitations and weaknesses and seek to assist them. We avoid actions that
will destroy harmony and teamwork.

As leaders, we promote an environment where respect and recognition prevails. We balance and manage
the needs of individual members of the team and the need of the organization. We provide a venue or
occasion for posting camaraderie among team members. We provide praise and recognition to enhance
productivity and morale of employees.

INNOVATIVENESS AND CREATIVITY

As chief ambassadors of IP, the employees and leaders of IPOPHL value innovativeness and creativity.

As employees, we promote and encourage innovative ideas to further improve services. We respect
others’ ideas, suggestions, and comments. We observe and study best practices from other organizations.
We adopt and improve best practices from other organizations. We use talents and skills in improving our
own work that benefits the organization. We view things and ideas from a wider perspective. We use a
positive approach in the maximum utilization of time. We discover ways to make our own work
enjoyable and beneficial.

As leaders, we implement a reward system for innovation and creativity. We institutionalize a catch-up
program and other similar initiatives. We continuously review and improve implementing rules and
regulations (IRR), manuals, and processes. We discover ways to foster teamwork and harmony. We
establish an environment that facilitates continuous improvement.
IPOPHL's 6-point agenda for 2020-2025

Despite the challenges of restricted movement during the quarantine in March 2020, IPOPHL swiftly
adapted with the new normal and was operating and providing seamless e-service in no time, proving the
Office’s resilience. But with its culture of excellence and motivated workforce, IPOPHL is fueled to do
more than weathering a storm.

“We want to shine beyond expectations,” IPOPHL Director General Rowel S. Barba said.

“IPOPHL wants to be a model agency not only within the Department of Trade and Industry family, but
across the entire public sector. Nais naming kami ay tingalain habang sumisikat sa mabuting dahilan at
paraan,” he added.

Such outlook and dedication, thus, gave rise to IPOPHL’s newest slogan: “Rising, Shining,
Beckoning!”

“It aims to embody how IPOPHL rises up to challenges, shines beyond expectations, and beckons others
to follow in its steps as it strives for excellence in governance.

“Umaangat, Sumisikat, Naghihikayat! We welcome the role of inviting, encouraging and even
motivating others to follow and adopt our best practices, systems and policies,” Barba added.

Guided by this goal and its BRIGHT 2020-2025 agenda, Barba hopes to steer IPOPHL toward its vision
of building "a progressive Philippines using IP assets for inclusive economic and social development by
2030."
ABOUT THE LOGO

IPOPHL stands at the forefront of Filipino innovation, while maintaining its delicate act of balancing the
interests of the creator of IP and of the public.

Through proper and efficient creation, protection, utilization, and enforcement of IP, IPOPHL prides itself
as a key dynamic partner in the promotion of IP as a strategic tool to influence economic growth in
a creative and innovative Philippines.

POPHL seeks to help bring the country to new altitudes made easier to explore with the advent of
the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). This is reflected in the new logo of the IPOPHL.

The silver box represents the individual and combined human intellect—the vast, rich, and inexhaustible
source of all creative and innovative ideas. Human curiosity, ingenuity, and perseverance help these.

The IPOPHL logo ideas grow and flourish. And once the ideas are translated into protectable intellectual
property (IP) and protected as such, they have the potential to shoot forth from the mass of ideas like an
arrow for the benefit of society and the common good.

The arrow points upward and forward, signifying the collective progress of humankind, and is directed
towards the elements of a radio frequency identification (RFID) system, an urgent reminder that we are
now on the way to the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Meanwhile, the two boxes in orange—the color of creativity—represent the Intellectual Property Office
of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the delicate role that it plays: balancing the interests of the IP owner and
that of the public.

Moreover, being heavily involved in all innovative activities, IPOPHL reinvents itself from being a
mere regulatory agency to a key dynamic partner in the promotion of IP as a strategic tool to influence
economic growth in a creative and innovative Philippines.

Zooming out, however, the viewer sees a tilted box standing on one of its corners. The instability brought
about by the tilt depicts disruption, which creates new avenues for exploration and experimentation,
invites enterprises to remain resilient amidst the blur of technological advancement, and challenges many
an idea to become relevant or face obsolescence.

Disruption involves innovative and creative ideas—products of the intellect. To thrive, it needs to be
firmly rooted in a stable yet flexible IP system designed to spur innovation and progress.