Fostering intellectual property: AIPO hosts trademark awareness seminar for students, faculty, and entrepreneurs

On 23 September 2024, the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) successfully hosted another Trademark Awareness Seminar via Zoom, gathering over 120 participants from various sectors. This informative session aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of trademarks and their significance in protecting brands.

The session was led by Atty Joan Janneth M Estremadura, Attorney IV at the Bureau of Trademarks from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL). Drawing from her extensive experience in intellectual property law, Atty. Estremadura delivered a comprehensive presentation that focused on the fundamentals of trademark law, highlighting the importance of trademarks as a tool to protect a business's identity, prevent confusion in the market, and foster goodwill and reputation.

Throughout the session, Atty Estremadura discussed the modern role of trademarks, which include acting as an identifier of a product or service’s origin and enhancing brand recognition. She also emphasized the importance of distinctiveness in trademarks, explaining how a unique mark can differentiate a brand from its competitors.

Participants were engaged through examples and interactive discussions. Atty Estremadura particularly emphasized the importance of exclusive rights conferred by trademarks, allowing businesses to stop others from using similar marks that could confuse consumers. By providing real-world cases, she highlighted the consequences of infringement and the remedies available to trademark owners.

The session thoroughly covered essential topics like maintaining trademarks and their renewal requirements. Atty. Estremadura shared insights into ensuring continued protection for a trademark, from regular use in commerce to timely renewal with the IPOPHL.

The event concluded with an open forum, allowing participants to raise questions about their trademarks and potential issues they may face, further enriching their understanding of trademark protection.

AIPO continues its commitment to promoting intellectual property education and awareness, ensuring that individuals and businesses understand the value of securing trademark protection for their brands.

If you are interested in seeking trademark protection or have questions about intellectual property in general, please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email at aipo@ateneo.edu. To learn more about our office and our services, you may visit our website at https://aipo.ateneo.edu. You may also check out our Facebook and LinkedIn pages for the latest updates and announcements.