AIPO empowers innovators through patent searching and drafting workshop

To support Filipino innovators in protecting their creations, the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO), through its Protection and Education Group, recently concluded its first Patent Searching and Drafting Workshop for 2025. Held online via Zoom on 18, 21, 31 and 8 March, and 4 and 8 April, the workshop brought together thirty-four (34) participants from various institutions across the country.

The sessions offered a mix of foundational knowledge and practical exercises, helping participants better understand the patenting process, from spotting inventions to drafting claims and specifications.

The workshop began with an insightful overview of Intellectual Property (IP), with a particular focus on patents. Ms Madielaine Fatallo, Research Officer at AIPO-PEG, emphasized the importance of knowing your invention, not just what it is, but why it matters and how it stands out. She noted that this depth of understanding is crucial in developing a strong and effective patent application.

The succeeding sessions tackled patent search techniques and tools, led by AIPO Director Dr Proceso Fernandez Jr. Participants were taught how to search prior art using relevant databases and assess whether their ideas are novel. Dr Fernandez also guided attendees through the process of invention spotting, learning to identify what makes an idea unique and worth protecting. He emphasized that an invention doesn’t need to be high-tech or complex; what matters is its novelty and usefulness. Even something as simple as a paperclip, he explained, can be patented if it solves a problem in a new and inventive way.

A highlight of the workshop was the hands-on activity on drafting patent claims. This session allowed participants to try writing claims for their own or sample inventions, with Dr Fernandez offering real-time feedback. The practical approach helped break down what is often seen as a technical and intimidating step in the patent process.

The workshop wrapped up with a session on writing patent specifications, facilitated by Ms Vanessa Malapit, MSc, Head of AIPO’s Protection and Education Group. Participants were introduced to the structure and content of a strong specification, one that clearly describes the invention while meeting legal requirements.

By the end of the program, participants left with a deeper appreciation of the role patents play in innovation and the tools to begin drafting their own applications. The workshop is part of AIPO’s continuing commitment to build an innovation-ready community, one that knows how to safeguard its ideas and push them forward.

If you are interested in joining a similar workshop on patent searching and drafting, you may email us at aipo@ateneo.edu. To learn more about our office, 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.