AIPO Strengthens Freedom-to-Operate Search Capabilities Through Three-Day Training Workshop

Image: Group photo of the participants and organizers of the Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) Training  (Photo sourced from the FTO organizer)

The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) strengthened its knowledge and capabilities in Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) searches through a three-day training workshop organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and held from August 25 to 27, 2026, at the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA in Las Piñas City.

Representing AIPO were Ms. Wilma D. Alamar and Ms. Vanessa E. Malapit, who participated in the training to deepen their understanding of Freedom-to-Operate searches and their role in supporting intellectual property management and technology commercialization.

Image: From left to right: Ms Wilma Alamar and Ms Vanessa Malapit, AIPO representatives

Freedom-to-Operate is an important component of intellectual property due diligence, particularly when a technology is being prepared for further development, utilization, licensing, or commercialization. An FTO search helps identify existing intellectual property rights that may pose potential barriers or infringement risks to the use or commercialization of a particular technology. The University of Perpetual Help System DALTA is among the institutions in the Philippines recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) through its Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) network.

Throughout the three-day training, participants were introduced to the principles and processes involved in conducting FTO searches. The workshop provided an opportunity to develop practical skills in identifying relevant patent information, examining existing intellectual property rights, and assessing potential risks that may arise when bringing technologies to market.

The training also emphasized the importance of conducting appropriate IP searches as part of the technology development and commercialization process. By understanding the patent landscape and identifying potential third-party rights early, technology developers and technology transfer professionals can make more informed decisions regarding further research, development, protection, licensing, and commercialization.

Image: Ms Vanessa Malapit, Head of the Protection and Education Group (PEG) at AIPO, presenting the Freedom to Operate (FTO) search output for an Ateneo tech-based technology.

For AIPO, the training contributes to the Office’s continuing efforts to strengthen its capacity in intellectual property protection, technology transfer, and commercialization. The knowledge gained from the workshop can support AIPO in providing more informed assistance to Ateneo researchers, innovators, and project teams as they navigate the IP considerations involved in bringing research outputs and technologies closer to the market.

The training further reinforces AIPO’s commitment to continuous professional development and to building stronger capabilities in intellectual property management. As the University continues to promote research and innovation, developing expertise in areas such as Freedom-to-Operate searches is essential in helping ensure that Ateneo technologies are not only protected, but are also positioned for responsible and sustainable utilization and commercialization.

Through continued learning and engagement with the broader IP community, AIPO remains committed to strengthening its role in helping transform research and innovation into meaningful impact.

If you are interested in participating in upcoming IP-related activities or have questions regarding intellectual property, commercialization, and business incubation, please contact us at aipo@ateneo.edu. 

To learn more about our office and services, visit our website at https://www.aipo.ateneo.edu/ or follow our https://www.facebook.com/AteneoIPO/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/ateneoipo pages for the latest updates.