IPOPHL, partners boost Philippine agriculture
11 February 2025
Copra production in Mindanao, The Philippines.
To increase the use of the geographical indication (GI) system, which is intended to boost the competitiveness of Philippine agriculture and raise farmers’ incomes, the Department of Agriculture (DA), the French Development Agency (AFD) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) have launched a new joint project valued at P30.1 million.
Ten high-potential GI products will be identified by the project, at least two will be registered as GIs, and farmers and other value chain participants will be assisted in the registration process. Training sessions will also be held to support organizations like the DA and IPOPHL. In addition, as part of AFD’s larger initiatives to support policy reforms boosting the nation’s resilience to climate change, the project also aims to assist in the formulation of laws for GIs, providing a solid legal basis for their future.
Brigitte M. da Costa-Villaluz, director general of IPOPHL, highlighted the value of utilizing the IP system and praised the AFD’s dedication to optimizing the impact of GIs on farmers and agricultural sectors. She also thanked the DA for its participation, highlighting its crucial role in assisting different agricultural supply chain partners in comprehending the advantages of GI protection.
She said: “We’re determined to accomplish a number of significant goals through this partnership, which will help the Philippines’ whole GI ecosystem. Your assistance guarantees that we not only preserve but also advance our agriculture as we seek to register more of these distinctive goods.”
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
