THE House of Representatives has approved on second reading a bill seeking tougher action against piracy, counterfeiting and other intellectual property violations to protect Filipino creators, inventors and businesses.
Albay 3rd District Rep. Raymond Adrian E. Salceda, co-author and sponsor of House Bill No. 11616, said stronger protection of intellectual property rights would help safeguard jobs, attract investments and encourage Filipino innovation.
The consolidated measure seeks to amend Republic Act No. 8293, or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines, by expanding the enforcement powers of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL).
It combines four proposed measures, including Salceda’s original House Bill No. 4702, and covers violations committed both in physical establishments and online platforms.
“Hindi lang po ito usapin ng copyright. Problema rin ito sa hanapbuhay, investment at oportunidad,” Salceda said, stressing that creators should not lose profits when others use or sell their work without permission.
Under the bill, IPOPHL would be authorized to investigate suspected violations, inspect establishments under prescribed procedures, issue warnings and enforce administrative orders. It may also recommend the cancellation of business permits or licenses of violators.
The proposed measure raises administrative fines from the current ₱5,000 to ₱150,000 range to ₱100,000 to ₱1 million. Violators may also face an additional fine of at least ₱10,000 for every day the violation continues.
The bill also targets online piracy by allowing IPOPHL, after due notice and hearing, to order the blocking of websites or online platforms primarily used to commit or facilitate copyright infringement. Internet service providers would have 48 hours to comply with blocking orders.
It also expands trademark protection to cover non-visible marks and strengthens coordination among government agencies, as well as alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Salceda said stronger intellectual property protection would give Filipino creators and entrepreneurs greater confidence to develop new products, invest in their work and expand their businesses.
He added that protecting Filipino ideas and innovations would help generate jobs, encourage investments and strengthen the country’s economy.
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