Manila: The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) is targeting at least a 5 percent annual increase in intellectual property (IP) applications as it steps up efforts to protect Filipino innovations. In an online briefing Tuesday, IPOPHL Deputy Director General Ann Claire Credo-Cabochan said the Bureau of Patents is aiming for steady growth in filings each year.
According to Philippines News Agency, data from IPOPHL showed that filings for patents, trademarks, utility models, and industrial designs reached 53,231 in 2025, showing a 2 percent increase from 52,257 in 2024. As of February 28, 2026, the total registered patents numbered about 1,656, with 1,399 filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty, 190 by non-residents, and 67 by residents.
Cabochan emphasized the agency's objective to ensure more local inventions are patented and protected. "The thrust now is to build on IP valuation," she said, noting the importance of valuing IP assets for rights holders to make informed decisions. She highlighted the role of state universities and research institutions across the country as a significant source of inventions, which could be potential patents, utility models, or industrial designs.
Protecting these inventions is crucial, Cabochan noted, as they may offer solutions to various human needs.
