AN OFFICIAL of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) underscored the need for closer coordination between regulators and the entrepreneurs in the fight against counterfeits.
During the media forum spearheaded by TikTok Shop in Taguig City on Wednesday, May 13, IPOPHL Bureau of Legal Affairs Director lawyer Christine Canlapan said that as more businesses shift to online platforms, monitoring them has been more challenging “because it (the mode) doesn’t follow the traditional border that we have.”
“And that is where we seek the help of our brand owners themselves to report any issues or concerns regarding violations of their intellectual property rights. Transforming into the digital space, it’s already very fast,” she said.
This is where online selling platforms such as TikTok Shop become more relevant in ensuring consumer and intellectual property protection.
Canlapan said TikTok Shop has been a strong partner of IPOPHL in safeguarding intellectual property.
“In order to help also our MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) like what we heard during the last panel session, they really need the support of the government and of course, the TikTok Shop as well,” she said.
For one, businesses with an online presence are required to register with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark, which is intended as a tool against illegitimate businesses and scammers.
The DTI has extended the voluntary registration for the Trustmark until end-2026, which is in line with Republic Act 11967, or the Internet Transactions Act of 2023, and the DTI’s Department Administrative Order 25-07. (PNA)
