(Courtesy of IPOPHL)
MANILA – The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) has introduced new rules to officially recognize IP agents and lawyers, ensuring their credibility and that they possess the needed competence and experience in patents and trademarks.
In a statement Wednesday, IPOPHL said its Memorandum Circulars (MCs) 12 and 13 took effect on Aug. 22, introducing a formal recognition system for patent and trademark agents and lawyers.
Under the new rule, the IPOPHL will form a five-member Recognition Board to oversee the implementation of the system.
“The new system will allow IPOPHL to officially recognize professionals who provide patent and trademark services to creators, innovators, entrepreneurs, and related stakeholders,” IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba said.
The MCs require non-lawyers to get recognition from IPOPHL to offer these services while it is optional for lawyers.
The recognition lasts three years and can be renewed.
The IPOPHL will list recognized professionals on its website.
It said agents who fail to meet standards or behave unethically will have their recognition revoked.
To help with the transition, the IPOPHL has given agents up to 24 months to adapt to these new rules.
The new system aims to improve the quality of IP services and protect the public from fraud. (PNA)
