Intellectual Property 101: Understanding Trademarks

Welcome back to our IP 101 series, where we break down the fundamentals of intellectual property in simple terms! The focus of this article is on trademarks - the symbols and names that wield significant influence in the world of business and our everyday lives.

So, what exactly is a trademark? Think of it as a brand’s signature. It is that logo, symbol, or phrase that makes a product or service unique. It differentiates the goods and services of one entity from those of others. The term of protection for a trademark is 10 years and is renewable every 10 years. 

But why does it matter? A trademark helps protect the reputation for the quality and reliability of the brand. It helps establish credibility, build customer trust in the brand, and create brand loyalty. 

Now, how do you create your mark? It begins with the concept of being imaginative. A distinctive trademark is catchy and unique. There exists what is known as a spectrum of distinctiveness, where trademarks must possess sufficient creativity to be readily approved, with generic marks being at the lowest end and fanciful marks at the highest end of the spectrum. Then, you register it with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to give you official ownership and the legal right to use your trademark on your products or services.

The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) can help you register your mark with the IPOPHL by following the registration process:

1. Download and fill out the registration form: aipo.ateneo.edu/trademark-registration

2. Email the accomplishment form and other requests to aipo@ateneo.edu

3. Pay the required service and filing fees.

4. Wait for the response and e-certificate from IPOPHL through AIPO.

So there you have it - a quick and easy rundown on trademarks. Remember to empower your brand with trademarks. Register now!

Should you have questions about the trademark and its registration process, you may email us at aipo@ateneo.edu. To check out AIPO and the services we offer, you may visit our website at https://aipo.ateneo.edu. You may also follow us on our  Facebook and LinkedIn pages for the latest updates and announcements.