IPO launches IP Research and Training Institute

As part of its activities to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the signing of the IP Code, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has announced that it is setting up a body called the IP Research and Training Institute (IPRTI). It is envisioned that the IPRTI will act as a centre for IP education and research in the Philippines and in the surrounding region.

As the research and training arm of the IPO, the IPRTI will aim to raise awareness of IP issues. The Philippines government is keen to highlight the role that education can have as a means to disseminate the importance of IP rights in the promotion of creativity, innovation and competitiveness. Its course offerings are designed for:

• academic and research institutions;
  
  
• business owners of small and medium-sized enterprises;
  
  
• IP rights holders (eg, scientists or inventors, artists);
  
  
• IP professionals (patent and trademark agents, and officials involved in IP utilization, protection and enforcement); and
  
  
• students from all levels.
  

The institute will also help to train examiners and other employees of the IPO.

Vicente B Amador, Sycip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan, Manila