which is being continuously updated.)
IPOPHL extends incentive programme – The IP Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) has announced its extension of the Juana Make a Mark incentive programme, which to date has enabled 3,000 women to gain greater market competitiveness through the protection of their trademarks. Launched in 2017, the programme is designed to encourage trademark registration among women-led micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in priority sectors, including agri-business, chemicals, electronic manufacturing, IT, tourism and transport and logistics. At a press conference last week, IPOPHL director general Rowel S Barba said that the office is now welcoming new applicants as the 1,000 slots in the previous round of extension have been fully availed, expanding: “The fourth cycle intends to benefit 1,000 women-led MSMEs more. With registration, women entrepreneurs could enjoy time-bound exclusive rights over their trademarks. This gives them strategic advantage in building their brand and business and the right to prevent others from using their marks for the same or similar goods or services without their authority or consent.” (