Basic IP Awareness with ASOG: Protecting Health Innovations Through Intellectual Property

On February 18, 2025, the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) participated in the Basic IP Awareness session hosted by the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG) in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH). The session was part of ASOG’s Second Health Hackathon, which brought together Doctors to the Barrios (DTTB) Batch 39 to develop innovative and sustainable healthcare solutions aimed at strengthening the Universal Health Care (UHC) system in the Philippines.

     (Ms Vanessa Malapit presenting the basics of Intellectual Property)

As part of the Hackathon Orientation, Ms Vanessa Malapit, MSc, Head of the Protection and Education Group at AIPO, was invited as a guest speaker to provide an overview of intellectual property (IP). Her session introduced participants to patents, trademarks, and copyrights, emphasizing how IP protection plays a crucial role in securing and commercializing innovations. Understanding intellectual property rights is essential for researchers and innovators, ensuring that their ideas can be properly safeguarded and translated into real-world solutions.

(Group photo of participants at ASOG’s Health Hackathon)

While the hackathon focused on solving healthcare challenges, the IP awareness session encouraged participants to consider the long-term impact of their ideas. By learning about IP protection strategies, participants gained insights into how they can legally protect their work, attract potential investors, and maximize the reach of their innovations.

Through initiatives like this, AIPO continues to empower innovators by providing educational sessions, consultations, and guidance on intellectual property protection. Whether in healthcare, technology, or research, AIPO remains dedicated to helping individuals and institutions secure their intellectual assets and navigate the innovation landscape.

For more IP-related sessions like this, you may visit www.aipo.ateneo.edu or email them at aipo@ateneo.edu. You may also check out their Facebook and LinkedIn pages for the latest updates and announcements.