The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) is accelerating efforts to register the Zambales Mangoes and the Bikol Pili as geographic indications (GIs), a move aimed at enhancing rural incomes, boost export competitiveness and elevate Philippine premium products on the global stage. 

In February, IPOPHL conducted visits to the Province of Zambales and the Bicol Region to formally initiate the GI application process for their signature products.    

Through stakeholder consultations and capacity-building activities, IPOPHL is working closely with local government units, farmer cooperatives and industry groups to undertake the first critical step: establishing clear production standards and governance systems that will safeguard, preserve and promote the products’ distinct qualities. 

Participants were oriented on defining geographic boundaries, drafting product specifications, establishing internal control mechanisms and forming governance structures necessary to ensure long-term compliance and sustainability. 

Zambales Mangoes have long enjoyed international acclaim as one of the world’s sweetest mango varieties, a distinction recognized by the Guinness World Records in 1995 alongside the mangoes of Guimaras. Notably, Guimaras Mangoes were successfully registered as the Philippines’ first GI in 2023, setting a precedent for the industry. 

In 2022, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) approved “Bikol Pili” as a collective mark, elevating the distinction of pili products produced by regional producers’ cooperative Orgullo Kan Bikol (OKB) Association, Inc. and strengthening their collective branding and market positioning. 

Under Republic Act No. 8293, or the Intellectual Property Code of 1997, a GI identifies a good as originating from a specific territory where a given quality, reputation, or characteristic is essentially attributable to its geographic origin.   

A GI mark provides legal protection against misuse of the name, ensuring that only accredited producers meeting established standards may use the designation. 

“Securing GI registration would institutionalize standards and further reinforce the distinctions of Zambales Mangoes and the Bikol Pili by sharpening their market differentiation, emphasizing their unique characteristics and strengthening consumer confidence, factors that would position them more firmly as premium products,” IPOPHL Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo.  

Echoing the importance of community stewardship, Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary Joycel R. Panlilio noted in her message that “a GI also recognizes traditions, knowledge and farming methods, and the unique characteristics of the land where a product originates.” 

Bureau of Trademarks Director Jesus Antonio Z. Ros underscored that the success of a GI registration rests on sustained collaboration among stakeholders.