The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), in partnership with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the Department of Agriculture (DA), said it will be advancing Bikol Pili and Camiguin Lanzones toward geographical indication (GI) status through a P30-million AFD-funded project promoting GIs in the Philippines.

Launched in May 2025 and running for 21 months, the GI project aims to shortlist 10 value chain products, select at least two high-potential GI products, and provide guidance to farmers and other value chain stakeholders throughout the registration process as part of AFD’s broader efforts to support agricultural competitiveness and strengthen climate change resilience.

From an initial list of nine products, Bikol Pili and Camiguin Lanzones were selected as pilot GIs following a comprehensive review during the Second Project Coordination Committee (PCC) Meeting on January 14, 2025.

The committee, in its presentation, highlighted that Bikol Pili was selected “due to its strong geographic identity, organized value chain, high economic potential, and natural climate resilience. The product derives a distinct flavor profile shaped by its unique environment, which is closely linked to the Bicol Region’s forested and volcanic landscapes. Pili trees also contribute to regional climate resilience, helping withstand frequent storms affecting the area.”

“Economically, Bikol Pili demonstrates significant value addition, with kernel prices increasing up to fivefold from raw materials, and a diversified product range spanning food, oil, cosmetics, and handicrafts. Its strong domestic reputation and growing international exposure in European and Asian markets further reinforce its suitability as a pilot GI with region-wide impact,” it added.

Meanwhile, Camiguin Lanzones was likewise chosen due to its strong geographic identity, organized producer base, and readiness for GI development. Renowned for its distinct sweetness and quality, the product’s reputation is closely tied to Camiguin’s volcanic soil and island ecology. Its pending collective mark application further reflects the presence of established producer organizations, coordinated stakeholders and a shared commitment to collective branding and protection.

IPOPHL Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo welcomed the committee’s decision, noting that the collaboration and consensus behind the selection of the pilot products “further strengthen the collective efforts that underpin the development of a robust and credible GI system in the Philippines.”

“Geographical indications are tools to empower local communities, preserve cultural heritage, promote rural development and enable Filipino products to stand out in regional and global markets. By pushing for the registration of more GI products, we give more Philippine products the spotlight they deserve internationally and show the culture, skills and stories that make us proud of our roots as Filipinos,” ADG Arevalo said.

Bikol Pili and Camiguin Lanzones also show how local traditions can support climate resilience. Produced using agroforestry systems and time-tested farming practices, these products help protect biodiversity, care for the land, and sustain farming communities. Rooted in local knowledge, these potential GIs encourage farming systems that are better able to adapt to a changing climate.

Uplifting farmers  

In the next phase of the project, the PCC will engage value chain actors directly, including producers, processors and local institutions. These stakeholders will undergo targeted capacity-building activities, including training on the preparation of manuals of specifications, a key requirement for GI registration that defines product standards, production methods and geographic boundaries.

The remaining seven value chain products shortlisted under the project, while not selected as pilot beneficiaries, may still proceed with GI registration independently, using the tools, knowledge and lessons generated through the project.

The DA welcomed the selection of the pilot products, underscoring the value of GIs as a development tool aligned with the agency’s mandate.

“These are not merely technical milestones; they are foundational steps toward building a credible, inclusive and sustainable GI system in the Philippines,” said DA Assistant Secretary Joycel R. Panlilio. “Geographical Indications recognize the role of farmers, including small producers, preserve local knowledge, strengthen rural economies, and elevate the reputation of Philippine agricultural products both locally and internationally. GI is not just a label. It is a legacy,” she added.

GI law pushed

Beyond pilot implementation, AFD also aims to provide legislative support to advance the country’s sui generis GI system and ensure a strong and sustainable legal foundation for GI protection in the Philippines.

During last week’s workshop, which also gathered representatives from legislative offices, government agencies and technical experts, participants reviewed Senate Bill No. 512, authored by Senator Loren Legarda, and discussed key provisions, including recommendations on:

• who may apply for and register a GI
• the composition and role of expert pools for validation and verification
• institutional arrangements for GI validation
• rules governing the use of the GI seal
• strengthened infringement provisions
• control and monitoring mechanisms to ensure long-term protection of registered GIs

Peter Damary on the left and Dr. Delphine Marie-Vivien on the right

The project is led by GI technical expert Peter Damary of the REDD Association, who manages stakeholder identification, engagement, workshops, technical support, and capacity-building activities. Dr. Delphine Marie-Vivien of CIRAD (the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development) oversees the legislative framework enhancement, bringing extensive experience advising GI frameworks in Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Laos.

“Our office is grateful for this project, which gives us the opportunity to further strengthen GI legislation, and we hope the bill will reinforce efforts to protect, empower and promote GIs and local producers. We are committed to informing stakeholders and guiding policy decisions to ensure it achieves its full potential,” Bureau of Trademarks Director Jesus Antonio Z. Ros said.

IPOPHL reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with AFD, partner agencies, legislators and stakeholders to ensure that the country’s GI system is credible, enforceable, inclusive and responsive to Philippine realities as the project advances into its next phase. # # # (Leah Alire, Information Officer II)