Stakeholders to provide input on development of a GI system in the Philippines

IP Key SEA organised a consultation meeting with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines in Manila, Philippines, on 6 February to obtain the viewpoints of stakeholders on the development of the country’s geographical indications (GI) system. Participants included producers from different parts of the country, representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, and other stakeholders.

Discussions covered potential Philippine products that could be protected under a GI system; the needs of producers for improving quality, branding and commercialisation of their products; options for developing the GI system; and case studies of GI products from elsewhere in Southeast Asia, among other topics.

Geographical indications are signs which identify a good as originating in a particular region or locality, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographical origin. GIs are considered a useful tool for economic growth and sustainable development, particularly in rural areas. They help foster new markets by directing consumers to identify the distinct qualities of local products, ensuring certain quality standards are met by producers, and typically apply environmentally-sound practices.

For further information: Development of GI system for the Philippines discussed in IP Key SEA consultation meeting