Iloilo city: The first-ever ASEAN Regional Geographical Indications (GI) Forum and Exhibition has opened its doors in Iloilo City, recognizing Western Visayas as a prominent example in promoting Geographical Indications.

According to Philippines News Agency, the forum is organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) in collaboration with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) via its SCOPE IPR Project. The event, themed 'SynerGI: Building Alliances for Sustainable GI Development,' runs from May 13 to 15. It aims to deepen alliances by bringing together representatives from ASEAN member states, EU partners, international organizations, government agencies, and local producers to explore long-term opportunities for producers and communities across ASEAN.

The forum seeks to showcase how GIs can aid in rural development, cultural preservation, tourism enhancement, and global competitiveness for local products. IPOPHL Director General Teodoro Pascua highlighted the importance of hosting the event in Western Visayas, emphasizing the region's understanding of GIs and their role in protecting the identity and reputation of locale-specific products. He stressed the need for robust support from government, academia, and private sectors in agriculture, trade, tourism, and science and technology to ensure meaningful and sustainable benefits for communities from GI protection.

Pascua also noted that the concept of GIs is relatively new in the Philippines, with relevant regulations issued only in 2022. The forum will cover various discussions on GI development, the needs to be addressed, and the experiences of ASEAN countries with GI implementation. He acknowledged that while the Philippines is not the first in Asia to adopt this system, it is learning and adapting it with the guidance and experiences of other ASEAN nations and experts.

EUIPO project leader Gonzalo Bilbao added that the European Union's experience shows GIs can transform a community's origin and reputation into economic value. However, he pointed out that the goal is not to directly replicate the European model, but rather to adapt shared experiences and practical lessons to fit the Philippine context.

The event's opening day also showcased GI products and traditions from ASEAN member states, the EU, and the Philippines.