Iloilo City hosts first ASEAN GI forum

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines and the European Union Intellectual Property Office opened the first ASEAN Regional Geographical Indications Forum and Exhibition on May 13 at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Iloilo City.

Themed “SynerGI: Building Alliances for Sustainable GI Development,” the three-day forum gathered representatives from ASEAN member states, European Union partners, government agencies, and local producers to strengthen regional cooperation and expand opportunities for GI communities across ASEAN.

The event also highlighted Western Visayas as a leading region in geographical indication development in the Philippines, with Guimaras mangoes becoming the country’s first registered GI in 2023 and Aklan piña gaining GI recognition in 2025.

The opening day featured an exhibition and cultural showcase of GI products and traditions from the Philippines, ASEAN member states, and the European Union.