Authentication & Brand

Strengthening Brand Protection at the Philippines Border

Editor

Editor

— 1 min read
Strengthening Brand Protection at the Philippines Border
Photo by CHUTTERSNAP / Unsplash

Brand protection at the Philippines border has become a pivotal issue in the fight against counterfeit and grey market goods. The Bureau of Customs (BOC) plays a crucial role in this effort by allowing rights holders to record their intellectual property (IP) rights, including trademarks, patents, and copyrights. This recordation is a strategic measure under Customs Administrative Order 6/2002, which provides the framework for handling and disposing of infringing goods.

Rights holders are advised to submit comprehensive product information, including samples, to the BOC's Intellectual Property Rights Division (IPRD). This documentation aids customs officials in identifying counterfeit products during inspections. Once infringing goods are detected, the BOC-IPRD notifies the rights holders, enabling them to verify the authenticity of the products. If the goods are confirmed as counterfeit, they are subject to seizure, leading to a legal process that can result in their destruction.

The BOC-IPRD relies heavily on intelligence from brand owners to conduct effective seizures and ensure that counterfeit goods do not enter the market. This collaboration is essential as it strengthens the enforcement of IP rights at the border and helps prevent the distribution of fake products that can harm consumers and damage brand reputation.

To further enhance border protection, brand owners are encouraged to conduct training sessions for customs officers, providing them with the tools needed to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit products. This proactive approach not only secures IP rights but also ensures that the Philippine market remains free from harmful and illegal goods.

While the costs associated with these protective measures are relatively low, the potential losses from counterfeit goods entering the market can be significant. By investing in robust IP protection strategies, brand owners can maintain consumer trust and protect their market share in an increasingly competitive environment.

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