In a significant development for the Philippine business landscape, more than twenty micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from various regions across the country are poised to enhance their competitive capabilities through a newly inaugurated Intellectual Property Management Clinic (IPMC). This strategic initiative is a collaborative effort between the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), designed to empower businesses with essential intellectual property tools.
A Four-Month Program for Strategic IP Development
The IPMC program, which commenced recently and will run until May, provides participating MSMEs with personalized one-on-one mentoring and practical hands-on coaching from seasoned intellectual property experts. The primary objective of this intensive training is to assist these enterprises in formulating clear, sector-specific IP strategies that not only foster business growth and safeguard innovations but also create opportunities for accessing new markets, both locally and internationally.
Through this clinic, MSMEs will receive guidance on auditing, managing, protecting, and enforcing their intellectual property assets—critical elements that are often overlooked but can significantly influence whether a business successfully scales or encounters obstacles. The program underscores the transformative potential of IP in driving entrepreneurial success.
Critical Timing for Economic Anchors
IPOPHL Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo emphasized that the launch of this program is particularly timely, given the pivotal role MSMEs play in the Philippine economy. In 2024, MSMEs constituted more than 99 percent of all business establishments in the country and contributed over 66 percent of total employment, highlighting their importance as economic drivers.
"MSMEs can raise their innovative capabilities by maximizing the use of their IP assets while protecting their IP rights," Arevalo stated. "IP assets have a value that is translatable to their equity or market value. Harnessing the potential of your IPs would strengthen your position in the markets, from local to global, while stimulating your entrepreneurial growth."
WIPO's Global Initiative and Philippine Application
WIPO originally launched the IPMC in 2022 and has since implemented it in several countries worldwide, aiming to help innovative companies align their intellectual property with business strategy and unlock the value of intangible assets. This Philippine edition marks a key step in expanding the program's reach to support diverse sectors.
Guy Pessach, director of the IP for Business Division of WIPO's IP and Innovation Ecosystems Sector, highlighted the real-world impact of such initiatives. "Behind every statistic, there are real entrepreneurs," Pessach remarked. "For them, IP is the bridge from invention to investment, from creativity to commercial success."
He further described the clinic as a transformative tool not only for the participating companies but also for institutions that support small businesses. "The IPMC is a game-changer for companies. It is also a game-changer for us in the way we work with SMEs and support them," he added. "The Philippines has a vibrant SME sector—from fashion, crafts, and food products to creative industries and technology startups. We are proud to support these businesses in unlocking the full value of their ideas and creativity."
Program Structure and Ongoing Support
The IPMC kick-off event in the Philippines spanned four days, concluding on February 5. The opening day introduced MSMEs and selected guests from government partners and IPOPHL's Innovation and Technology Support Offices to the fundamentals of intellectual property and the program's comprehensive structure.
Lectures and panel discussions during the event emphasized the crucial role of IP in successful commercialization and business expansion. Subsequent days were dedicated to in-depth, sector-specific sessions led by IP experts, ensuring tailored guidance for each enterprise. To maintain momentum and provide sustained assistance, online follow-up consultations will continue in the coming months, offering ongoing support to all participants.
Building an Inclusive IP Ecosystem
Jarvis H. Alindogan, Director of IPOPHL's Documentation, Information and Technology Transfer Bureau, noted that the partnership with WIPO reflects IPOPHL's commitment to making IP protection practical and accessible, especially for small businesses. "This clinic is part of our expanding programs that are creating a more inclusive IP ecosystem," Alindogan explained. "Participants will learn about IPOPHL services—from empowering women-led MSMEs and engaging the youth to enabling global expansion. Using these tools early helps businesses manage risks and remain competitive."
This initiative represents a proactive step towards strengthening the Philippine MSME sector by equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources needed to leverage intellectual property for sustainable growth and enhanced market competitiveness.
