How to Register an Industrial Design with IPOPHL
An industrial design refers to the ornamental or aesthetic aspect of a product. It may consist of three-dimensional features such as the shape or surface of an article, or two-dimensional features such as patterns, lines, colors, or texture. Under Republic Act No. 8293 (the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines), industrial designs are protected to encourage creativity and innovation in the visual appearance of products.
Unlike patents, which protect the functional or technical aspects of an invention, industrial designs protect only the visual appearance of a product — how it looks, not how it works. An industrial design must be new and original to qualify for registration. Once registered, the owner receives exclusive rights to make, sell, and import products bearing the registered design.
Industrial design registration with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) provides an initial protection period of 5 years from the filing date. This protection can be renewed for two consecutive 5-year periods, giving a maximum total protection of 15 years. Registration is handled by the Bureau of Patents (BOP) under IPOPHL.
Key Facts About Industrial Design Registration
- An industrial design protects the ornamental or aesthetic aspect of a product — its shape, pattern, lines, colors, texture, or any combination thereof
- Initial protection period is 5 years from the filing date, renewable for two more consecutive 5-year periods (maximum 15 years total)
- The design must be new (not previously disclosed anywhere in the world) and original (not a copy or imitation of existing designs)
- Industrial design registration covers only the visual appearance of a product — it does NOT protect functional or technical features
- Designs are classified under the Locarno Classification system, an international classification for industrial designs with 32 classes covering different product categories
- Registration is processed by the Bureau of Patents (BOP) under IPOPHL, not the Bureau of Trademarks
- The Philippines is a member of the Hague Agreement, allowing international industrial design registration through a single application
- Filing can be done online through the IPOPHL eServices portal or in person at the IPOPHL office
What CANNOT Be Registered as an Industrial Design
- Designs dictated solely by technical function — If the shape or appearance of a product is determined entirely by its technical function and serves no ornamental purpose, it cannot be registered as an industrial design. Consider filing a patent or utility model instead.
- Designs contrary to public order or morality — Designs that are offensive, obscene, or contrary to public policy, good customs, or accepted principles of morality will be refused registration.
- Designs that are not new or original — If the design has been previously disclosed, published, exhibited, or made available to the public anywhere in the world before the filing date, it lacks novelty and will be refused.
- Purely artistic works — Works that are purely artistic in nature (paintings, sculptures as art, literary works) should be protected through copyright registration with the National Library of the Philippines (NLP), not as industrial designs.
- Designs that differ only in minor details — If the design is essentially the same as an existing registered design with only insignificant variations, it will not be considered new or original.
- Designs containing protected emblems — Designs incorporating national flags, emblems, official signs, or symbols of the Philippines or other countries without authorization cannot be registered.
Examples of Industrial Designs
Industrial designs can apply to a wide range of products across many industries. Here are some common examples of designs that can be registered with IPOPHL:
Furniture Shapes
Unique chair designs, table shapes, cabinet configurations, shelving units, and other furniture with distinctive visual appearance
Phone & Gadget Designs
The external appearance of mobile phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, earbuds, speakers, and other electronic devices
Packaging Designs
Distinctive packaging shapes for food products, cosmetics, household items, beverages, and retail goods
Textile Patterns
Original fabric patterns, weave designs, printed textile patterns for clothing, upholstery, curtains, and decorative textiles
Vehicle Body Designs
The external shape and styling of cars, motorcycles, tricycles, jeepneys, boats, bicycles, and other vehicles
Jewelry Designs
Original designs for rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, brooches, and other decorative accessories and ornaments
Bottle & Container Shapes
Unique bottle shapes for beverages, perfumes, condiments, cleaning products, and other containers with distinctive forms
GUI & Icon Designs
Graphical user interface (GUI) designs, app icons, screen layouts, digital display designs, and other visual elements of software
Step-by-Step: How to Register an Industrial Design
Follow these steps to register your industrial design with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL). The process involves filing, examination, and registration through the Bureau of Patents.
Conduct a Design Search
Before filing your application, conduct a thorough search of existing industrial designs to ensure your design is new and original. You can search through the IPOPHL online database, the WIPO Global Design Database, and other international design registries. This step helps you avoid filing for a design that already exists and saves you time and money on rejected applications.
Tip: Use the WIPO Global Design Database at www.wipo.int/designdb to search international industrial design registrations. Also check the IPOPHL eGazette for published Philippine applications.
Prepare Clear Drawings or Photographs of the Design
Prepare high-quality drawings or photographs showing the design from multiple views. This is the most critical part of your application as the visual representations define the scope of your protection. You must include sufficient views to fully disclose the design.
- Front view — showing the main face of the product
- Back view — showing the rear of the product
- Left side view — showing the left profile
- Right side view — showing the right profile
- Top view — showing the product from above
- Bottom view — showing the underside (if relevant)
- Perspective view — a 3D angled view showing the overall design
Tip: Drawings should be on white background with clear black lines. If using photographs, ensure proper lighting and a neutral background. All views must be consistent in scale and style.
Complete the Application Form with Locarno Classification
Fill out the Industrial Design Application Form available from the IPOPHL website or eServices portal. You must indicate the correct Locarno Classification for your design. The Locarno Classification is an international system that categorizes industrial designs into 32 classes based on the type of product.
- Identify the correct Locarno class for your product (e.g., Class 06 for Furniture, Class 14 for Recording and Communication Equipment)
- Provide a brief description of the design — this describes the visual features you are claiming protection for
- Include the name and address of the applicant and the designer
- If claiming priority from a foreign application, include priority details (country, date, application number)
File via IPOPHL eServices or Bureau of Patents
Submit your completed application through the IPOPHL eServices portal (recommended for faster processing) or in person at the Bureau of Patents at the IPOPHL office in Taguig City. Online filing is available 24/7 and may offer discounted fees.
- Online: Go to eservices.ipophil.gov.ph, create an account, and submit your application with all attachments
- In person: Visit IPOPHL at 28th Floor, Upper McKinley Building, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Your filing date is established upon submission — this is important as it determines priority and the start of protection
Pay Filing Fees
Pay the required filing fees upon submission of your application. The base filing fee for an industrial design application is ₱2,592 for individual/small entity applicants. Large entity applicants pay higher fees. Fees can be paid online through the eServices portal, at the IPOPHL cashier, or through authorized payment channels.
Note: Fees vary depending on the number of designs included in the application and whether the applicant qualifies as a small entity. Always check the current IPOPHL schedule of fees before filing.
Formality Examination
After filing, IPOPHL conducts a formality examination to check whether your application meets all the formal requirements. This includes verifying that all required documents are complete, the drawings or photographs are adequate, the Locarno Classification is correct, and the fees have been paid.
- If deficiencies are found, you will receive a formality report and must respond within the prescribed period (usually 2 months)
- Failure to respond or correct deficiencies may result in the application being considered withdrawn
- Once the formality requirements are satisfied, the application proceeds to substantive examination
Substantive Examination (Novelty and Originality Check)
The Bureau of Patents conducts a substantive examination to determine whether the design meets the requirements for registration. The examiner evaluates:
- Novelty: Whether the design is new and has not been disclosed anywhere in the world before the filing date (or priority date)
- Originality: Whether the design is the result of the designer's own creative effort and not a mere copy of an existing design
- Non-functionality: Whether the design features are ornamental and not dictated solely by technical function
- Public order: Whether the design is not contrary to public order or morality
Note: If the examiner raises objections, you will receive an office action and have the opportunity to respond with arguments or amendments. You may need to provide additional views or modify your description.
Registration and Issuance of Certificate
Once the application passes both formality and substantive examinations, IPOPHL issues a Certificate of Industrial Design Registration. The registration is published in the IPOPHL eGazette to notify the public. From this point, you have exclusive rights to use, make, sell, and import products bearing the registered design within the Philippines.
- The registration certificate contains the registration number, design title, Locarno classification, applicant/designer details, filing date, and design representations
- Protection begins from the filing date, not the registration date
- You may use the registered design symbol to indicate your design is protected
Renewal at 5th and 10th Year
Industrial design registration is initially valid for 5 years from the filing date. To maintain protection, you must file for renewal:
- First renewal: Before the expiration of the 5th year from the filing date (extends protection to 10 years)
- Second renewal: Before the expiration of the 10th year from the filing date (extends protection to 15 years — the maximum)
- Renewal requires payment of the prescribed renewal fees
- Failure to renew results in the design becoming part of the public domain — anyone can use it freely
- A grace period of 6 months is allowed for late renewal with payment of a surcharge
Important: Mark your calendar for renewal deadlines. Unlike trademarks that can be renewed indefinitely, industrial designs have a maximum protection period of 15 years. Plan accordingly for your design protection strategy.
Requirements for Industrial Design Registration
Make sure you have all the following documents and information ready before filing your industrial design application with IPOPHL:
| Requirement | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | Completed Industrial Design Application Form (IPOPHL Form No. 3) with all required fields filled out | Available online at the IPOPHL website or eServices portal |
| Drawings / Photographs | Multiple views of the design: front, back, left side, right side, top, bottom (if applicable), and perspective view | Must clearly show all ornamental features; use white background; consistent scale and style across all views |
| Description of Design | A brief written description highlighting the ornamental features of the design — shape, pattern, lines, colors, texture, or configuration | Should describe only visual/aesthetic features, not functional aspects |
| Locarno Classification | The correct Locarno class and subclass for the product to which the design is applied (e.g., Class 06-01 for Chairs) | Check the Locarno Classification at WIPO's website; 32 classes available |
| Applicant / Designer Details | Full name, address, nationality, and contact information of the applicant and the actual designer(s) of the industrial design | If the applicant is not the designer, include a Deed of Assignment or employment agreement |
| Filing Fee | Payment of the prescribed filing fee — ₱2,592 for individual/small entity applicants | Large entity rate is higher; pay online or at IPOPHL cashier |
| Priority Document (if applicable) | Certified copy of earlier foreign application if claiming priority under the Paris Convention | Must be filed within 6 months of the earliest priority date |
| Power of Attorney (if applicable) | If filing through a representative or IP agent, a signed Power of Attorney or authorization letter | Foreign applicants must appoint a resident agent in the Philippines |
Complete Example: Industrial Design Registration
Below is a sample industrial design registration for a "Modern Bamboo Chair" design. This shows how a typical application would be structured:
=====================================================
INDUSTRIAL DESIGN APPLICATION
Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines
=====================================================
APPLICATION DETAILS:
----------------------------------------------------
Application Type: Industrial Design
Filing Method: IPOPHL eServices (Online)
Filing Date: 2025-03-15
Application No.: 3-2025-000XXX
APPLICANT INFORMATION:
----------------------------------------------------
Applicant Name: Juan Dela Cruz
Address: 123 Mahogany Street, Brgy. San Antonio
Makati City, Metro Manila 1200
Philippines
Nationality: Filipino
Contact No.: +63 917 XXX XXXX
Email: juan.delacruz@email.com
Entity Type: Small Entity / Individual
DESIGNER INFORMATION:
----------------------------------------------------
Designer Name: Juan Dela Cruz
Address: (Same as Applicant)
Nationality: Filipino
DESIGN DETAILS:
----------------------------------------------------
Title of Design: Modern Bamboo Chair
Locarno Class: 06-01 (Seats / Chairs)
No. of Designs: 1 (Single Design Application)
DESCRIPTION OF DESIGN:
----------------------------------------------------
The industrial design pertains to the ornamental
appearance of a chair made from bamboo material.
The design features:
- A curved backrest with three horizontal bamboo
slats arranged in a wave pattern
- Armrests with a smooth, rounded bamboo profile
curving downward from the backrest
- A contoured seat surface with gentle concavity
for ergonomic seating comfort
- Four tapered bamboo legs splaying outward at a
15-degree angle from vertical
- Visible bamboo node joints used as decorative
accents at connection points
- A natural bamboo finish with visible grain pattern
The design does NOT claim protection for:
- The functional aspects of the seating mechanism
- The specific material composition
- The dimensions or proportions (these may vary)
VIEWS SUBMITTED:
----------------------------------------------------
1. Front View (Drawing No. 1)
2. Back View (Drawing No. 2)
3. Left Side View (Drawing No. 3)
4. Right Side View (Drawing No. 4)
5. Top View (Drawing No. 5)
6. Perspective View (Drawing No. 6)
PRIORITY CLAIM:
----------------------------------------------------
Priority Claimed: None
FEES PAID:
----------------------------------------------------
Filing Fee (Small Entity): PHP 2,592.00
Total Paid: PHP 2,592.00
Payment Method: Online (eServices)
Official Receipt No.: OR-2025-XXXXXX
DECLARATION:
----------------------------------------------------
I/We declare that I am/we are the true and lawful
owner(s) of the industrial design described herein
and that the design is new and original to the best
of my/our knowledge.
Signed: Juan Dela Cruz
Date: March 15, 2025
=====================================================
STATUS: Application Filed - Awaiting Formality
Examination
=====================================================Industrial Design Registration Fees
Below are the standard fees for industrial design registration with IPOPHL. Fees are subject to change — always verify with the current IPOPHL schedule of fees before filing.
| Fee Type | Small Entity / Individual | Large Entity | When to Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filing Fee | ₱2,592.00 | ₱5,184.00 | Upon filing the application |
| Examination Fee | ₱2,160.00 | ₱4,320.00 | Upon request for substantive examination |
| Registration / Grant Fee | ₱2,160.00 | ₱4,320.00 | Upon approval and before issuance of certificate |
| Publication Fee | ₱1,728.00 | ₱3,456.00 | For publication in the IPOPHL eGazette |
| 1st Renewal (5th year) | ₱3,456.00 | ₱6,912.00 | Before the end of the 5th year from filing date |
| 2nd Renewal (10th year) | ₱3,456.00 | ₱6,912.00 | Before the end of the 10th year from filing date |
| Late Renewal Surcharge | ₱1,728.00 | ₱3,456.00 | Within 6-month grace period after expiration |
| Assignment / Transfer Fee | ₱1,296.00 | ₱2,592.00 | When transferring ownership of the registered design |
Note: Fees shown above are approximate and based on the IPOPHL schedule of fees. Actual fees may vary. Small entity refers to individuals, startups, micro and small enterprises, or educational/research institutions. Large entity refers to medium and large enterprises. Always check the latest IPOPHL fee schedule at www.ipophil.gov.ph before filing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between an industrial design and a patent?
An industrial design protects the ornamental or aesthetic appearance of a product — how it looks. A patent protects the technical function or invention — how it works. For example, if you design a uniquely shaped chair, the visual appearance (curves, proportions, decorative elements) can be protected as an industrial design, while a new folding mechanism for the chair could be protected by a patent. They cover different aspects and can sometimes complement each other. Industrial designs last up to 15 years, while patents last 20 years.
Can I protect a logo as an industrial design?
Generally, no. Logos are typically protected as trademarks, not industrial designs. A trademark protects a sign that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services, which is what a logo does. However, if a logo is applied as a decorative or ornamental element on a specific product (e.g., an embossed pattern on a handbag), the overall design of the product incorporating that element could potentially be registered as an industrial design. For standalone logo protection, file a trademark application with IPOPHL's Bureau of Trademarks instead.
How many views (drawings/photographs) do I need to submit?
You should submit sufficient views to fully and clearly disclose all the ornamental features of your design. As a general guideline, include at least the following views: front, back, left side, right side, top, and a perspective (3D) view. If the bottom of the product has distinctive design features, include a bottom view as well. For two-dimensional designs (like textile patterns), a single view may be sufficient. The key is that the drawings must completely represent the design you are claiming protection for — what is not shown in the drawings is not protected.
Can I file an international industrial design application from the Philippines (Hague Agreement)?
Yes. The Philippines is a member of the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Industrial Designs. This means you can file a single international application through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and designate multiple member countries where you want your design to be protected. The international application can be filed directly with WIPO or through IPOPHL as the office of origin. This is especially useful for Filipino designers and businesses who want to protect their product designs in multiple countries without filing separate applications in each country.
Do I need a lawyer or IP agent to file an industrial design application?
Not necessarily. Filipino individuals and companies can file their own industrial design applications directly with IPOPHL without a lawyer or IP agent. The IPOPHL eServices portal is designed to be user-friendly. However, hiring a registered IP agent or attorney is recommended if you have a complex design, need help with the Locarno classification, or want professional guidance on how to best represent your design in the drawings. Foreign applicants are required to appoint a resident agent or representative in the Philippines to file on their behalf.
Can I protect a graphical user interface (GUI) or icon design?
Yes. Graphical user interfaces (GUIs), app icons, screen layouts, and other digital display designs can be registered as industrial designs with IPOPHL. The design must be applied to a product (in this case, a display screen or electronic device). You would classify these under the appropriate Locarno class (e.g., Class 14-04 for Screen displays and icons). Submit clear screenshots or digital renderings showing the GUI/icon design. The design must still meet the requirements of novelty and originality. This is an increasingly important area of industrial design protection as digital products and software interfaces become more prevalent.
What happens if someone copies my registered industrial design?
If someone copies or uses your registered industrial design without your authorization, you have several legal remedies. You can send a cease and desist letter demanding they stop using your design. If they do not comply, you can file a complaint with IPOPHL's Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA) for administrative action, or file a civil case in court for damages and injunction. IPOPHL can also coordinate with the Bureau of Customs to prevent importation of infringing goods. The registered design owner has the exclusive right to make, sell, offer for sale, use, and import products bearing the registered design. Infringement can result in damages, attorney's fees, and injunctive relief.
How long does the industrial design registration process take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the design and whether any objections are raised during examination. On average, the process takes approximately 12 to 24 months from filing to registration. The formality examination typically takes 1 to 3 months. If the application passes formality requirements, the substantive examination may take an additional 6 to 18 months. Delays may occur if the examiner issues office actions requiring the applicant to respond. Filing through the IPOPHL eServices portal may expedite processing as it reduces administrative handling time.
Important Reminders
- File before disclosing publicly: Your industrial design must be new at the time of filing. Publicly disclosing, exhibiting, selling, or publishing your design before filing may destroy its novelty and make it ineligible for registration. File your application before showing the design at trade fairs, posting it on social media, or making it available to the public in any way.
- Provide clear and complete drawings: The quality of your drawings or photographs directly affects the scope of your protection. Ensure all views are clear, consistent, and fully show the ornamental features of your design. Poor or incomplete drawings may result in narrow protection or rejection of your application.
- Renew at the 5th and 10th year: Remember to file for renewal before the expiration of each 5-year period. Set calendar reminders well in advance. A 6-month grace period with surcharge is available, but it is best to renew on time to avoid any lapse in protection.
- Design protects appearance, not function: Industrial design registration protects only the visual appearance of a product. If your product also has a novel technical function, consider filing a separate patent or utility model application to protect the functional aspects. You can hold both an industrial design registration and a patent for the same product.
- Consider trademark for brand elements: If your product design also serves as a brand identifier (e.g., a distinctive bottle shape that consumers associate with your brand), consider also registering it as a three-dimensional trademark. This can provide complementary and potentially longer-lasting protection (trademarks are renewable indefinitely).
- Keep records of your design process: Maintain documentation of your design creation process — sketches, drafts, digital files with timestamps, and correspondence. These records can serve as evidence of originality and the date of creation in case of disputes.
- Monitor for infringement: Once your design is registered, actively monitor the market for unauthorized use of your design. IPOPHL does not proactively enforce design rights — it is the owner's responsibility to identify and take action against infringers.
- Consider international protection: If you plan to sell products with your design internationally, consider filing for international design protection through the Hague Agreement or filing national applications in your target markets. Your Philippine registration only protects you within the Philippines.
Need Help?
For questions about industrial design registration, you may contact IPOPHL directly:
IPOPHL also offers free IP consultations and assistance through the IP Academy and regional IP Hubs located in Cebu, Davao, and other major cities. You may also call their hotline or send an email for general inquiries about industrial design registration.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the IPOPHL office you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest IPOPHL office first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.