IPOPHL, APPI sign pact to bolster patent professionalization, IP awareness

In line with its thrust of building partnerships with stakeholders, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Association of PAQE (Patent Agents Qualifying Examinations) Professionals, Inc. (APPI) to undertake cooperation activities on intellectual property (IP) awareness and education, capacity building and development of programs for the professionalization of patent agents.

At a virtual ceremony held last September 7, IPOPHL Director General Rowel S. Barba and APPI President Editha R. Hechanova signed the MOU, which laid out the areas of cooperation and activities both parties will be pursuing in the next four years.

Barba expressed hopes that “through this MOU, our partnership will yield impactful results in our shared goal of fostering innovation and an environment that recognizes and promotes research and development and creativity.”

Meanwhile, Hechanova described the signed MOU as a “milestone” in the history of their association.

She said APPI is honored to be “collaborating with IPOPHL on matters relating to the patent agent profession with the end view of raising it to the level of other licensed professions.”

The MOU provides the framework for cooperation which includes discussions for the improvement of IP rules and policies; exchange of research, information, experiences and educational material that can help them advance their shared goals; and information awareness campaigns through the joint organization of conferences, seminars and capacity-building activities.

APPI is a non-profit organization composed of certified patent lawyers and agents in the country. The organization aims to promote the professionalization of patent practice in the country and promote the use of the patent system.

The MOU with APPI is part of IPOPHL’s effort to enhance the level of professionalism for patent agents who represent inventors in prosecuting their patent applications.

The MOU signing was attended by Bureau of Patents Director (BOP) Lolibeth R. Medrano, BOP Assistant Director Ann N. Edillon, IP Academy Officer-in-Charge Director Frederick P. Romero and APPI officers. (IPOPHL)