---
title: Philippines Trademark System Practice Guide | EVORIX
description: Comprehensive practice guide to Philippines trademark system (RA 8293 IP Code). IPOPHL filing, Madrid Protocol (2012), mandatory Declaration of Actual Use...
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 2026/05/23

# Philippines Trademark System Practice Guide

![Picture of 弁理士 杉浦健文](https://www.evorix.jp/hs-fs/hubfs/top-profile-pic-sugiura-1.jpg?width=50&name=top-profile-pic-sugiura-1.jpg)  弁理士 杉浦健文

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Designed for professionals responsible for trademark applications, registration, and enforcement in **the Philippines**, this guide systematically **outlines the full scope of trademark** practice in this English-speaking market of over 100 million people. Centered on **the Intellectual Property Code of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8293)**, it covers IPOPHL (Philippine Intellectual Property Office) procedures, government fees, designations via the Madrid System (Philippines joined in 2012), **the** Philippines’ unique **Declaration of Actual Use (DAU)** system,and measures against counterfeit goods. A patent attorney explains the information essential for brand protection in this market of over 100 million people where English is an official language.

Key Points of This Article

- The Philippines has a common law-style structure similar to U.S. law, centered on **the 1997 Intellectual Property Act (RA 8293)**
- **A Declaration of Actual Use (DAU) is mandatory—**submitted after 3, 5, and 10 years of registration; failure to submit results in automatic cancellation
- **Member of the Madrid System (since 2012)**. Japanese companies can designate the Philippines via the Madrid System
- Foreign applicants **must appoint a local agent**; a Power of Attorney (POA) is acceptable without notarization (simplified POA)
- Examination system: **Formal examination → Substantive examination → Publication (30-day opposition period) → Registration**
- Enforcement of rights involves a combination of **the IPOPHL Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA), the Special Commercial Court, and Customs**
- **English is the official language,** so the procedural burden for Japanese companies is lower than in other ASEAN countries

PHILIPPINES TRADEMARK

A comprehensive guide to the trademark system and practices in the Philippines, the 6th-largest economy in ASEAN, written by a patent attorney. It systematically explains everything from IPOPHL applications to the DAU system and countermeasures against counterfeit goods across 12 sections.

### Table of Contents

1. [Executive Summary](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec1)
2. [Basic Structure of the System and Legal Basis](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec2)
3. [Applicant Eligibility and Required Documents](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec3)
4. [Standard Process Flow and Timeline Management](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec4)
5. [Estimated Government Fees](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec5)
6. [Trademark Requirements and Specific Regulations](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec6)
7. [DAU (Declaration of Use) System \[Required\]](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec7)
8. [Opposition and Cancellation Proceedings](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec8)
9. [Enforcement of Rights and Response to Infringement](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec9)
10. [Designation via the Madrid System](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec10)
11. [Points to Note for Japanese Companies](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec11)
12. [Practical Checklist for Japanese Companies](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/philippines-trademark-guide#sec12)

## 1. Executive Summary

Philippine trademark practice is a statutory system centered on **RA 8293 (the Intellectual Property Act of 1997)**, with **IPOPHL rules, circulars,** and **examination guidelines** governing applications, examinations, and disputes. It features a common law structure similar to U.S. law, and the **“Declaration of Use (DAU)” system** is a unique feature not found in other ASEAN countries.

Four Key Points to Keep in Mind Regarding Philippine Trademark Practice

1. **Obligation to File a DAU**: A Declaration of Use must be filed at 3, 5, and 10 years after registration. **Failure to file** results in **automatic cancellation**, so managing these deadlines is of the utmost importance.
2. Government fees **are denominated in PHP (Philippine Peso)**. The application fee for one class is PHP 2,592 (approx. 7,000 yen).
3. Examination follows **a U.S.-style common law approach**. Strict standards for distinctiveness
4. Enforcement of rights **falls under the jurisdiction of the IPOPHL BLA (Bureau of Legal Affairs) for first-instance proceedings**; civil litigation in the Special Commercial Court is also possible

## 2. Basic Structure of the System and Legal Sources

### Key Legislation and Operational Layers

The "primary law" of the Philippine trademark system is **Republic Act No. 8293 (IP Code of the Philippines, 1997)**, which evolved into the current system following **amendments in 2008 and 2013**.The trademark provisions are set forth in Section 121 and subsequent sections. The core provisions cover the definition of trademarks, registration requirements, application procedures, oppositions, cancellations, and criminal penalties. Procedural operations are specified in **IPOPHL regulations and Memorandum Circulars**.

### Role of IPOPHL (Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines)

The **Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL)** is responsible for functions such as trademark examination, registration, and dispute resolution. Its headquarters are located in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, Makati City. It has a unique structure in which **the Bureau of Trademarks (BTM)** handles examinations, while **the Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA)** handles opposition, cancellation, and infringement cases.

### Judicial and Quasi-Judicial Forums

| Agencies | Jurisdiction and Characteristics | Legal Basis |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **IPOPHL Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA)** | Quasi-judicial proceedings for trademark opposition, cancellation, and infringement administrative cases | IP Code §10 |
| **IPOPHL Director General** | Appeals against BLA Decisions | IP Code §7 |
| **Special Commercial Courts** | Exclusive Jurisdiction over Civil and Criminal Trademark Infringement Cases | SC Resolution AM No. 03-03-03-SC |
| **Court of Appeals** | Appeals from Special Commercial Court Decisions | Judicial Organization Act |
| **Supreme Court** | Court of Last Resort | Constitution |

## 3. Eligibility to File a Petition and Required Documents

### Eligibility of Applicants

In the Philippines, both individuals and corporations may file trademark applications. **Foreign applicants must appoint a local representative (a lawyer or patent/trademark agent registered with IPOPHL)**.

**POA Requirements (Simplified):** Since 2017, a Power of Attorney (POA) **no longer requires notarization or embassy certification (a simplified POA is acceptable)**. The procedure is simpler compared to countries such as Thailand.

### Required Documents

- **Application Form**: In English, via the IPOPHL e-TM electronic filing system
- **Trademark Specimen**: JPEG/PNG (5×5 cm); 3D and sound trademarks are also accepted
- **Designated Goods and Services**: 45 classes under the Nice Classification. Applications covering multiple classes are permitted
- **POA**: Required for foreign applicants (simplified POA acceptable)
- **Priority Documents**: When claiming Paris Convention priority, submit with an English translation within 3 months of the filing date

## 4. Standard Process and Timeline

① Filing (IPOPHL e-TM) → ② Formal examination (approx. 1 month) → ③ Substantive examination (6 months)   
↓  
④ Trademark publication → ⑤ Opposition period (30 days) → ⑥ Registration → Renewal every 3, 5, or 10 years

**Estimated Timeframe:** In smooth cases, **approximately 12–18 months from filing to registration**. Procedures are relatively swift via the e-TM system.

## 5. Estimated Government Fees

| Item | Fee (PHP) | Conversion to Japanese Yen (for reference) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Application Fee (1 Class / Electronic Filing)** | PHP 2,592 | Approx. 7,000 JPY |
| **Additional Class (per class)** | PHP 2,592 | Approx. 7,000 yen |
| **Fee for filing an objection** | PHP 4,930 | Approx. 13,400 yen |
| **DAU (3 years)** | PHP 1,920 | Approx. 5,200 yen |
| **DAU (5 years)** | PHP 1,920 | Approx. 5,200 yen |
| **Renewal fee (1 category, within the deadline)** | PHP 5,184 | Approx. 14,000 yen |

## 6. Trademark Requirements and Specific Regulations

### Registerable Trademarks

- **Word Marks** (English, Filipino)
- **Figurative Marks and Combined Marks**
- **Three-dimensional trademarks (3D Marks)**
- **Sound Marks**
- **Color Trademarks** (Color Combinations)
- **Collective Marks and Certification Marks**

### Absolute Grounds for Refusal (IP Code §123)

- Lack of Distinctiveness
- Violation of Public Order and Morals, Falsehood, or Misleading Nature
- Unauthorized Use of National Flags, Emblems, or Emblems of International Organizations
- Three-dimensional trademarks consisting solely of functional shapes
- Names Registered as Geographical Indications

### Relative Grounds for Refusal

- Similarity to Prior Applications or Registered Trademarks
- Similarity to a well-known trademark (including non-similar goods)
- Bad-faith application (IP Code §232)

## 7. DAU (Declaration of Actual Use) System \[Mandatory\]

**The Philippines’ most critical system:** Trademark owners are required to file a **“Declaration of Actual Use (DAU)” at the 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year (renewal) milestones following registration**. **Failure to file** results in **automatic cancellation**, making the Philippines the country with the strictest deadline enforcement in ASEAN.

### DAU Submission Schedule

| Timing | Submission Deadline | Required Information |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **3rd Year DAU** | Within 3 years of the filing date | Evidence of trademark use (labels, packaging, advertisements, etc.) + Affidavit of Use |
| **5th Year DAU** | Between 5 and 6 years from the registration date | Evidence of continuous use |
| **10th Year DAU (at renewal)** | At the time of renewal application | Renewal Application + DAU |
| **Valid reason for non-use** | During the DAU Period | Declaration of Non-Use + Valid Reason |

**Practical Note:** Evidence of use must be limited to **actual sales, advertising, etc.**, **within the Philippines**. Use solely within Japan is not accepted. **Evidence of sales of imported goods in the Philippine market** (such as receipts from local retailers or local advertisements) is important.

## 8. Opposition and Cancellation Proceedings

### Opposition During the Publication Period (IP Code §134)

Interested parties may file an opposition with **the IPOPHL BLA within 30 days** of the trademark publication. An extension of this period may be requested.

### Cancellation Proceedings After Registration (IP Code §151)

Interested parties may file a petition for cancellation **with the IPOPHL BLA**. The primary grounds include **non-use for five consecutive years**, bad faith at the time of registration, and false declarations.

## 9. Enforcement of Rights and Response to Infringement

### Multi-Pronged Enforcement

Choice of Three Forums

- **IPOPHL BLA Administrative Proceedings**: Injunction and Damages (up to PHP 200,000)
- **Special Commercial Court**: Civil litigation (unlimited damages) + criminal prosecution
- **NBI/PNP (National Bureau of Investigation/Philippine National Police)**: Criminal Investigation and Seizure

### Criminal Penalties (IP Code §170)

Trademark counterfeiting carries **a prison sentence of 2 to 5 years plus a fine of PHP 50,000 to PHP 200,000**. Organized infringement is subject to severe criminal penalties.

### Border enforcement by Customs

IPR Recordal registration is available at **the Bureau of Customs**. Importation of counterfeit goods is prohibited.

## 10. Designation via the Madrid Protocol

The Philippines **acceded to the Madrid Protocol in July 2012**, allowing Japanese companies to designate the Philippines via the Madrid System. Applications can be filed through the Japan Patent Office [based on a Madrid international trademark application](https://www.evorix.jp/マドプロ国際商標出願).

**DAU Obligations Remain Unchanged Under the Madrid Protocol:** Even when designating the Philippines via the Madrid Protocol, the **obligation to file DAUs every 3, 5, or 10 years** remains unchanged. It is necessary to continuously manage these deadlines.

## 11. Points to Note for Japanese Companies

### Advantages of English as an Official Language

Since English is an official language in the Philippines, **all specifications, notifications, and judgments** can be handled **in English**. This significantly reduces the procedural burden compared to other ASEAN countries (such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia).

### DAU Deadline Management Is Paramount

The most common mistake Japanese companies make in managing their Philippine trademarks is **overlooking DAU deadlines**. Filing three times over a 10-year period (at 3, 5, and 10 years) requires the use of **a dedicated calendar management system**.

### Addressing the Counterfeit Market

Counterfeit goods circulating in markets such as Greenhills in Manila and on online e-commerce platforms (Lazada, Shopee) pose a significant challenge. Comprehensive measures are essential, including **collaboration between IPOPHL, the NBI, and Customs,** as well as utilizing **reporting channels for e-commerce operators**.

## 12. Practical Checklist for Japanese Companies

### Pre-filing

- Conduct prior trademark searches in the IPOPHL database
- Consider multi-class applications (cost-effective)
- **Develop a DAU deadline management plan** (most critical)

### During Prosecution

- Claim Paris Convention priority within 3 months of the filing date
- Strictly adhere to the response deadline for Office Actions (2 months + extension)
- Monitoring for competitors during the publication period (30 days)

### Post-Filing (Enforcement / Maintenance)

- Prioritize **DAU 3-year deadline** in calendar management
- Commence actual use in the Philippine market within one year of the filing date
- Continuously retain evidence of use (labels, advertisements, sales records)
- Select the optimal forum (BLA, Special Commercial Court, or NBI) upon discovery of infringement
- Register for Customs IPR Recordal

## Summary

The Philippine trademark system is characterized by **a U.S.-style common law structure centered on RA 8293 (IP Code)** and **mandatory renewal (DAU) requirements every 3, 5, and 10 years**. For Japanese companies to successfully establish their brands in the Philippine market, **prioritizing DAU deadline management** and utilizing **efficient procedural operations** that **leverage the advantage of English as the official language** are key. Please also see our [Madrid Protocol international trademark application](https://www.evorix.jp/マドプロ国際商標出願) and [trademark registration services](https://www.evorix.jp/trademark-service).

### Consultation on Philippine Trademark Applications

EVORIX Intellectual Property Law Firm provides comprehensive support for trademark applications and enforcement in major ASEAN countries, including the Philippines. From strategic planning for direct filings and Madrid Protocol applications to DAU deadline management and counterfeit prevention, our experienced patent attorneys—working in collaboration with local agents—are here to assist you.

[Go to the Inquiry Form →](https://www.evorix.jp/inquiry) [View the Consultation Process](https://www.evorix.jp/consultation)

## Sources & References

### ▼ Primary Legislation

- **Republic Act No. 8293 (1997 Intellectual Property Act / IP Code of the Philippines)** + RA 9502 (2008) Amendment + RA 10372 (2013) Amendment
- **IPOPHL Memorandum Circulars (Regulations and Circulars)**
- **Trademark Regulations 2017 (IPOPHL)**
- Rules of the Special Commercial Courts (SC Resolution AM No. 03-03-03-SC)
- Provisions of the Customs Act Related to IPR Border Measures

### ▼ Official Sources

- **IPOPHL Official Website**: [ipophil.gov.ph](https://www.ipophil.gov.ph)
- **WIPO IP Portal (Philippines)**: [wipo.int](https://www.wipo.int/about-ip/en/ip_country/philippines.html)
- **WIPO Lex (Philippines IP Laws Database)**: [wipo.int/wipolex](https://www.wipo.int/wipolex/en/index.html)
- **Accession to the Madrid Protocol (July 2012)**: WIPO Madrid System

### ▼ Explanatory Materials from Japanese Organizations

- **JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization)** Report: "Intellectual Property System in the Philippines"
- **Japan Patent Office** “Information on Foreign Industrial Property Rights Systems (Philippines)”
- **INPIT (National Institute of Industrial Property)** Intellectual Property Information on Emerging Countries

### ▼ International Agreements

- **Paris Convention** (Philippines joined in 1965)
- **Madrid Protocol** (Philippines acceded in July 2012)
- **TRIPS Agreement** (WTO accession: 1995)
- **RCEP** (Entered into force in 2022)
- **JPEPA (Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement)** (Entered into force in 2008)

\*This article is based on the above primary sources and official information as of April 2026 and is intended to provide general information. As laws and regulations are subject to change, we recommend consulting primary sources and experts for the latest information. For specific decisions regarding individual cases, we recommend consulting experts, including local agents.

![杉浦健文 弁理士](https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/HP-%E5%BC%81%E7%90%86%E5%A3%AB%E7%B4%B9%E4%BB%8B-%E3%83%97%E3%83%AD%E3%83%95%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AB%E7%94%BB%E5%83%8F.png)

AUTHOR / Author

Takefumi Sugiura

**Representative** Patent **Attorney**, EVORIX Intellectual Property Office

Assists clients across a wide range of industries—including IT, manufacturing, startups, fashion, and healthcare—from patent, trademark, design, and copyright applications through to trials and infringement litigation. Also well-versed in intellectual property strategies for cutting-edge fields such as AI, IoT, Web3, and FinTech. Member of multiple organizations, including **the Japan Patent Attorneys Association, the Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA), and the Japan Trademark Association (JTA)**.

[→ Detailed Patent Attorney Profile](https://www.evorix.jp/staff) [→ Consultations & Inquiries](https://www.evorix.jp/inquiry) [→ Consultation Process](https://www.evorix.jp/consultation)

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---

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Intellectual Property Law Firm EVORIX

 

4th Floor, Qus-Hiranomachi Building,  
3-1-2 Hiranomachi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka-shi,  
Osaka 541-0046 Japan

Mail: [contact@evorix.jp](mailto:contact@evorix.jp)

TEL: +81-6-7777-1884

- [Hague International Design Application](https://www.evorix.jp/hague-design-application)
- [Madrid Protocol International Trademark Application](https://www.evorix.jp/madrid-protocol-trademark)
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- [About Us](https://www.evorix.jp/about)
- [Our Attorneys](https://www.evorix.jp/staff)
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- [Contact](https://www.evorix.jp/inquiry)

---

 

Copyright © 2026, Intellectual Property Law Firm EVORIX® All rights reserved. 

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