Unlocking creativity and protection: AIPO hosts copyright awareness session

On 9 October 2024, the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) hosted a webinar on copyright law, attended by over 120 participants from both within and outside the Ateneo community. The session aimed to deepen the understanding of copyright protection and its role in intellectual property law. Attendees from diverse fields gained valuable knowledge about how copyright safeguards original works and supports creators in protecting their intellectual property.

Atty Emerson Cuyo, Director IV of the Bureau of Copyrights and Related Rights from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), served as the speaker of the event. He provided a detailed exploration of Philippine copyright law, highlighting what qualifies for protection and the legal steps involved in securing it. Participants were particularly interested in learning that even everyday materials like emails and text messages can be considered copyrightable if they meet the minimal requirement of creativity. This broadened their understanding of what can be protected under copyright law and clarified common misconceptions, such as the incorrect use of "credits to the owner" (CTTO) as proper attribution for copyrighted content.

Atty Cuyo also discussed the practical aspects of copyright enforcement, offering strategies for protecting intellectual property against infringement. The discussion covered the importance of registering copyrighted works, the criteria for originality, and tips for ensuring compliance with copyright laws. The session provided practical guidance on how individuals and businesses can use copyright law to their advantage.

Another key takeaway from the webinar was the emphasis on the economic and moral rights copyright offers to creators. Participants learned how copyright fosters the creative economy by providing a legal framework that supports the protection of intellectual works, from literary creations to visual and performing arts. This perspective was particularly insightful for business owners and creators seeking to secure their intellectual property in both traditional and digital spaces. Additionally, Atty. Cuyo extended an invitation to all participants to join the "2nd Philippine International Copyright Summit," scheduled from 21 to 25 October 2024, for further in-depth discussions on copyright and its impact.

By the end of the session, attendees gained a deeper understanding of copyright law and how it applies to their professional and creative endeavors. The event reinforced AIPO’s commitment to raising awareness about intellectual property rights, empowering creators, and supporting innovation through legal protections. This webinar is part of AIPO's ongoing efforts to provide valuable resources for those navigating the evolving landscape of intellectual property in the Philippines.

If you need assistance in copyright registration 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.