AIPO hosts an IP awareness session on Trademarks for Students and Entrepreneurs

On November 16, 2023, the Protection and Education Group of the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) hosted an informative IP awareness session focused on Trademarks for Students and Entrepreneurs. More than a hundred participants attended the event, composed of students, faculty, staff, and entrepreneurs from both within and beyond the Ateneo community.

Image: Group photo of the attendees of the webinar

Dr Frederick P Romero, Director-in-Charge of the IP Academy at the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), delivered an insightful presentation as the featured speaker for the event. He provided a comprehensive overview of the Intellectual Property (IP) system, IP Rights, and the role of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. He also highlighted the significance of IPOPHL's mandate and the importance of our understanding of intellectual property.

Image: Dr Romero giving an introduction to trademark and its related concepts

The webinar focused on the vital topic of trademarks, wherein Dr Romero emphasized the pivotal role of strong brand identity and its significance for both students and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He provided valuable guidance on the criteria for registering marks based on their distinctiveness and categories. Additionally, he comprehensively addressed the various signs and symbols that are prohibited from being used or registered as trademarks. The discussion also delved into the distinction between a trademark and a trade name, aiming to provide clarity and enlightenment to entrepreneurs.

The session also covered the importance of trademark registration, shedding light on the rights of use conferred upon trademark owners. It detailed the 10-year protection period, with the option of renewal every decade. Furthermore, a comprehensive overview of the trademark registration procedures, both within the Philippines and on an international scale, known as the Madrid Protocol, was also discussed.

Image: Dr Romero discussing the functions of trademarks not only in the business environment but also in our everyday lives

In conclusion, the recently conducted trademark awareness session provided an invaluable opportunity to explore the world of trademarks and their essential significance, not only within the business landscape but also in our everyday lives. Dr Romero's presentation provided a roadmap for effective trademark management and protection, emphasizing their critical contribution to fostering innovation and achieving success.

AIPO would like to extend sincere thanks to the IP Academy, under the leadership of Dr Romero, for their remarkable dedication to advancing intellectual property education.

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If you are interested in seeking trademark protection or have questions about intellectual property in general, please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email at aipo@ateneo.edu. To learn more about our office and our services, you may visit our website at https://aipo.ateneo.edu. You may also check out our Facebook and LinkedIn pages for the latest updates and announcements.

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