PH conveys commitment to develop and enhance intellectual property through MSMEs

July 11, 2025

The Philippine Delegation joins the Sixty-Sixth Series of Meeting of the Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO 66th Assemblies) in Geneva, Switzerland.

In the Statement delivered by IPOPHL Director General Brigitte M. da Costa-Villaluz, it welcomed the conclusion and adoption of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty last November and underscored that “it paves the way for an easier process for MSMEs to protect their designs.” The establishment of the ASEAN Technology and Support Office (TISC) Task Force was also noted for “paving the way for MSMEs to effectively develop and enhance intellectual property.” IPOHL Director General stressed that “[i]t is an honor for the Philippines to be Chair of ASEAN TISC Network Task Force. You have our wholehearted commitment.” 

For the WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge, Director General da Costa-Villaluz reiterated the country’s resolve to complete the accession process.

Finally, Director General da Costa-Villaluz encouraged discussions on the proposed Treaty on the Protection of Broadcasting Organizations for negotiation at a Diplomatic Conference and advancing deliberations in the SCCR which was initiated in 1997 in Manila through the WIPO Worldwide Symposium on Broadcasters’ Rights, before the SCCR was established.

“[a]dvances in technologies generate more piracy, illegal signals, and irresponsible use of artificial intelligence. IP protection needs to outpace these advances,” Director General da Costa-Villaluz said. 

The Statement, as delivered, may be accessed through the WIPO website via this link https://webcast.wipo.int/video/A_66_2025-07-09_AM_125457. The time stamp of the Philippines is at 1:31:50.