Exploring intellectual property: AIPO engages Ateneo students in awareness sessions

In its continued efforts to make intellectual property (IP) more accessible to students, the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) recently held two in-class IP awareness sessions for Ateneo Communication Entrepreneurship students. The sessions, conducted on 22 March and 7 April 2025, aimed to introduce the fundamentals of IP in a way that’s relevant, engaging, and easy to understand.

Leading both sessions was Ms Vanessa E Malapit, Head of AIPO’s Protection and Education Group. With years of experience helping innovators, creatives, and entrepreneurs navigate the IP landscape, Ms Malapit brought a practical and relatable approach to explaining what intellectual property is and why it matters even to students.

The sessions covered key topics, including the basics of patents, utility models, industrial designs, trade secrets, trademarks, and copyright. Rather than focusing on complex legal terminology, Ms Malapit posed real-world questions like: “What happens if someone else uses your invention?” “Can your brand be legally protected?” and “Do your designs, logos, or even school projects qualify as intellectual property?”

“What happens if someone else uses your invention?”
 “Can your brand be legally protected?”
 “Do your designs, logos, or even school projects qualify as intellectual property?”

Students learned how IP rights can help protect their creative work and ideas, whether they’re designing a product, coding an app, or starting a business. More importantly, they were encouraged to think of IP not just as a legal concern, but as a valuable asset they can use, manage, and even commercialize.

The sessions also highlighted the intersection of intellectual property with ethics, innovation, and career readiness. For students who may someday become inventors, entrepreneurs, or artists, understanding IP early on can help them move forward more confidently and responsibly.

AIPO hopes that through these awareness initiatives, more students will feel empowered to recognize the value of their ideas and take the right steps to protect them. By integrating IP education into regular class discussions, AIPO continues to nurture a culture of innovation and respect for intellectual rights within the Ateneo community.

Curious about how intellectual property works?

Learn more by visiting www.aipo.ateneo.edu, and stay connected with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for the latest updates, resources, and IP learning opportunities.