Intellectual Property Guide (Philippines)
Here is a step-by-step guide with requirements and fee ranges for applying intellectual property rights (IPR) in the Philippines, tailored for manufacturing businesses and digital platforms.
What you’ll learn in this intellectual property guide
This intellectual property guide for the Philippines walks you through the key steps, fees, and document requirements for protecting your inventions, brands, and creative work so your business has legal protection as it grows.
To connect this with your overall compliance, you may also want to read our BIR Business Registration Guide, VAT vs Non-VAT Tax Type Guide, and Digital Tax Filing (eBIRForms) Guide.
To budget for IP filing and renewal fees (patents, trademarks, copyrights, and designs), you can also use our Budget Calculator to map these costs into your annual business budget.
Identify the Type of Intellectual Property
Determine the right type of IP protection for your asset or business activity. Common types include:
- Patent – inventions or technical processes.
- Utility Model – minor inventions or improvements.
- Industrial Design – visual design or appearance of products.
- Trademark – brand names, logos, and identifying marks.
- Copyright – original works (software, content, designs, media).
- Geographic Indications – products tied to a specific location.
Prepare Required Documents
Specific requirements vary by IP type, but generally include:
- Completed application form (downloadable from the IPOPHL website).
- For Patents: technical description, claims, abstract, drawings/diagrams, and priority documents if claiming foreign priority.
- For Trademarks: clear representation of the mark and list of goods/services per class.
- For Copyright: copy of the work (digital/physical), author’s ID, and declaration of ownership.
- Proof of payment or prepared payment details for filing fees.
Pre-filing Search (Optional but Recommended)
Before filing, search the IPOPHL database to check for similar or identical IP already registered or pending. This reduces the risk of rejection and wasted fees.
File the Application
Submit your application to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL):
- Use IPOPHL’s e-services portal for online filing, or
- File physically at the IPOPHL office or through accredited agents.
- Make sure forms are complete and documents are clear to avoid delays.
Pay Filing and Processing Fees
Filing fees depend on the type of IP and whether you are a small or big entity. Example ranges (for small entities):
- Patent: around ₱1,800–₱3,600+ depending on claims and complexity.
- Trademark: around ₱1,200 per class.
- Copyright: around ₱500–₱1,000.
Note: Additional fees may apply for publication, priority claims, issuance of certificates, and other services.
Examination Process
- For patents and trademarks, IPOPHL conducts a formal examination and prior art search to determine novelty and registrability.
- For copyrights, registration is mostly administrative, focusing on completeness of documents.
Approval and Issuance
If your application passes examination and any oppositions, IPOPHL grants the IP right and issues a certificate.
Maintain Your IP Rights
- Patents and trademarks require annual fees and renewals to remain in force.
- Industrial designs require renewal fees after their initial term.
- Copyright protection lasts for many years and generally does not require renewal.
📊 Fees Summary (Small Entities Example)
| IP Type | Filing Fee (₱) | Other Fees (₱) |
|---|---|---|
| Patent | ₱1,800–₱3,600+ | Annual fees starting around ₱1,550/year |
| Trademark (per class) | ₱1,200 | Publication & issuance ~₱1,485 |
| Copyright | ₱500–₱1,000 | Administrative charges vary |
| Utility Model | Lower than patent | Annual/maintenance fees apply |
| Industrial Design | Varies | Renewal fees apply |
Notes for Manufacturing and Digital Platforms
Manufacturing Businesses
- Use patents for new inventions and processes.
- Apply for industrial design to protect product appearance.
- Register trademarks for brand names and logos.
Digital Platforms
- Protect software code, UI layouts, and digital content via copyright.
- Register trademarks for your app or platform name and logo.
- For technically novel software or systems, explore patent protection where applicable.
- File online using IPOPHL’s e-services for convenience and faster processing.
📌 Final Reminders
This step-by-step guidance and fee overview helps Philippine manufacturing and digital businesses plan their IP filings more effectively and protect their innovations legally.
Always check the latest schedules and rules on the official IPOPHL website or consult with an IP professional for complex cases.