The Philippines has once again been excluded from the US government’s list of countries with issues on intellectual property rights (IPR) enforcement for the 11th consecutive year. The latest Special 301 Report of the US Trade Representative (USTR) did not include the Philippines in the priority watch list and watch list of countries with IP concerns.
The report highlighted the Philippines’ establishment of a new E-Commerce Bureau under the Department of Trade and Industry as a best IP practice, aimed at safeguarding consumers and merchants involved in e-commerce transactions, particularly against the sale of counterfeit goods online.
Additionally, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) was commended for its awareness and educational campaigns, including programs for youths and collaborative efforts with stakeholders on anti-piracy initiatives.
The IPOPHL’s National Judicial Colloquium on IP Adjudication, which involved the participation of judges from Singapore and Australia to share best practices, was also recognized as a best IP practice in the report. This continued exclusion from the USTR’s list reflects the positive outcomes of the Philippines’ efforts in IP protection and enforcement.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 27, 2024
