How to Register a Trademark with IPOPHL

Updated: May 2026Na-update: Mayo 202625 min read25 minutong basahin

A trademark is any visible sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one enterprise from those of other enterprises. Under Republic Act No. 8293 (the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines), a trademark may consist of words, letters, numerals, logos, designs, colors, shapes, sounds, or any combination thereof. Registering your trademark with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) gives you exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the goods or services you specify in your application.

Trademark registration in the Philippines is handled by the Bureau of Trademarks (BOT), a bureau under IPOPHL. Once registered, your trademark is protected nationwide for 10 years from the date of registration, and it can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods as long as you continue to use the mark and file the necessary renewal documents. Registering your trademark is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your brand, prevent unauthorized use, and build consumer trust and recognition in the Philippine market.

Why Register a Trademark?

Exclusive Rights: Registration gives you the exclusive right to use the trademark in connection with the goods or services specified in your registration throughout the Philippines
Legal Protection: A registered trademark serves as prima facie evidence of your ownership and gives you the right to take legal action against infringers, counterfeiters, and unauthorized users
Brand Recognition: A registered trademark helps build brand identity and consumer trust — customers associate your mark with the quality and reputation of your goods or services
Business Asset: A trademark is an intangible asset that can be licensed, franchised, sold, or used as collateral for loans — it adds value to your business
Deterrent Effect: The ® symbol on your trademark warns potential infringers that your mark is legally protected and enforceable
International Protection: A Philippine trademark registration can serve as the basis for filing trademark applications in other countries through the Madrid Protocol, which the Philippines is a member of
Customs Protection: You can record your registered trademark with the Bureau of Customs to prevent the importation of counterfeit goods bearing your mark
Online Protection: A trademark registration strengthens your ability to take down infringing content on social media, e-commerce platforms, and websites

Key Facts About Trademark Registration

What can be trademarked: Words, logos, slogans, taglines, colors, shapes, sounds, 3D marks, holograms, moving images, or any combination that can distinguish your goods or services
Registration duration: 10 years from the date of registration, renewable indefinitely for consecutive 10-year periods
Geographic scope: Nationwide protection throughout the Philippines
Filing fee: Starting at ₱2,592 per class for individual/small entity applicants
Processing time: Approximately 8 to 12 months from filing to issuance of the certificate (if no opposition or issues arise)
Classification system: The Philippines uses the Nice Classification (International Classification of Goods and Services), which has 45 classes (34 for goods, 11 for services)
Filing methods: Online via the IPOPHL eServices portal or in person at the IPOPHL office in Taguig City
Legal basis: Republic Act No. 8293 (IP Code of the Philippines), as amended by RA 10372

What CANNOT Be Trademarked

Under the IP Code and IPOPHL rules, the following marks are generally not registrable as trademarks:

Generic terms: Words that are the common name for the product or service (e.g., "Computer" for computers, "Bread" for bakery products)
Descriptive marks: Words or phrases that merely describe a characteristic, quality, ingredient, or function of the goods/services (e.g., "Cold and Creamy" for ice cream) unless they have acquired distinctiveness through use
Immoral or scandalous marks: Marks that are contrary to public order, morality, or good customs
Deceptive marks: Marks that would mislead the public as to the nature, quality, or geographical origin of the goods or services
Government symbols: The Philippine flag, coat of arms, national symbols, or any official government insignia, as well as symbols of foreign governments and international organizations, unless authorized
Marks identical or confusingly similar to existing registrations: Marks that are the same as or closely resemble a previously registered or pending trademark for the same or related goods/services
Geographical names used generically: Place names that are commonly used to indicate the origin of goods rather than to identify a specific brand (e.g., "Manila" for handicrafts unless used in a distinctive manner)
Marks that consist exclusively of functional shapes: Shapes that are dictated solely by the nature of the goods or are necessary to obtain a technical result
Names or portraits of living persons: Without their written consent, or of deceased Philippine presidents within 10 years of their death

Types of Trademarks Recognized by IPOPHL

The IP Code and IPOPHL recognize several types of marks that can be registered for protection. Understanding the differences will help you determine which type of mark is appropriate for your business:

Trademark (for Goods)

A trademark identifies and distinguishes the goods (products) of one manufacturer or seller from those of others. This is the most common type of mark. Examples include brand names for clothing, food products, electronics, cosmetics, and other tangible goods. A trademark is classified under Nice Classification Classes 1 to 34.

Service Mark (for Services)

A service mark identifies and distinguishes the services of one provider from those of others. It functions just like a trademark but applies to services rather than goods. Examples include marks for restaurants, hotels, consulting firms, salons, delivery services, and software-as-a-service. Service marks are classified under Nice Classification Classes 35 to 45.

Collective Mark

A collective mark is owned by a group, association, cooperative, or organization and is used by its members to indicate membership or to identify the goods/services produced by members of the group. Examples include marks used by agricultural cooperatives, trade associations, or professional organizations to collectively brand products from their members.

Trade Name

A trade name is the name or designation that identifies a business enterprise as a whole, as distinguished from the products or services it offers. While trade names are not registered through the trademark system (they are registered with the DTI or SEC), IPOPHL provides protection against unfair competition involving trade names.

Well-Known Marks

Well-known marks enjoy a higher level of protection under Philippine law and international treaties. These marks are widely recognized by the relevant sector of the public in the Philippines, even if they are not registered here. IPOPHL can refuse registration of marks that are identical or similar to well-known marks, even if the goods or services are different. The determination of whether a mark is "well-known" is made on a case-by-case basis considering factors such as knowledge in the relevant sector, duration of use, extent of promotion, geographical reach, and any court or administrative recognition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Trademark Registration

Follow these steps to register your trademark with IPOPHL. The entire process typically takes 8 to 12 months from filing to issuance of the Certificate of Registration, assuming no opposition or significant issues arise during examination.

Conduct a Trademark Search

Before filing your application, it is essential to conduct a thorough trademark search to determine whether an identical or confusingly similar mark already exists in the IPOPHL database. You can search for existing trademarks using the following tools:

TMView: The international trademark search tool accessible through the IPOPHL website, which includes Philippine trademarks
IPOPHL IP Search Portal: The official IPOPHL online database where you can search registered and pending trademarks
WIPO Global Brand Database: For searching international trademark registrations that may extend to the Philippines

Searching helps you avoid wasting filing fees on an application that will be refused due to a prior conflicting mark. If a similar mark exists, consider modifying your proposed mark or choosing a different name or design altogether.

Identify the Nice Classification Class(es)

The Philippines uses the Nice Classification (International Classification of Goods and Services), which organizes all goods and services into 45 classes (Classes 1-34 for goods, Classes 35-45 for services). You must identify the correct class or classes that cover the goods or services you intend to use your trademark with.

Class 25: Clothing, footwear, headgear
Class 29: Processed foods, dairy, preserved goods
Class 30: Coffee, tea, rice, sauces, spices, baked goods
Class 35: Advertising, business management, retail services
Class 43: Restaurant services, food and drink services, accommodation

Each additional class requires a separate fee. You can file a multi-class application covering several classes in a single filing. The IPOPHL eServices portal includes a Nice Classification search tool to help you identify the correct class.

Prepare the Trademark Application

Prepare your trademark application using Form TM-01 (the official IPOPHL trademark application form) or fill out the online application through the IPOPHL eServices portal. You will need to provide:

A clear representation of the mark (for word marks, the text of the mark; for logo/design marks, a high-quality image in JPEG or PNG format)
A description of the mark, including colors claimed (if applicable)
A complete list of goods and/or services, grouped by Nice Classification class
Applicant details: full name, address, nationality, and contact information
If the mark has been used, the date of first use in the Philippines and/or in commerce
Priority claim details, if you are claiming priority based on an earlier filing in another Paris Convention or WTO member country (must be within 6 months of the first filing)

File the Application Online or In Person

Submit your completed application through one of two methods:

Online Filing (Recommended): Use the IPOPHL eServices portal at eservices.ipophil.gov.ph. Create an account, fill out the application form, upload your mark representation and supporting documents, and submit. Online filing is available 24/7 and allows you to track your application status in real time.
In-Person Filing: Visit the IPOPHL office at 28th Floor, Upper McKinley Building, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Bring printed copies of your application form, mark representation, and supporting documents. Operating hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Your filing date is established when the application is received by IPOPHL with all the minimum filing requirements (mark representation, applicant name, list of goods/services, and filing fee).

Pay the Filing Fees

Pay the required filing fees at the time of submission. The basic filing fee for a trademark application is:

₱2,592 per class for individual/small entity applicants
₱4,320 per class for large entity applicants

Payment can be made online (for eServices filings), through the IPOPHL cashier, or via accredited banks. Keep your official receipt as proof of payment. Additional fees may apply for multi-class applications, priority claims, or other special requests.

Formality Examination (1-2 Months)

After filing, the Bureau of Trademarks will conduct a formality examination of your application. This checks whether your application is complete, properly formatted, and meets all minimum filing requirements. The formality examination typically takes 1 to 2 months.

If your application has deficiencies (missing information, unclear mark representation, incorrect classification, etc.), the examiner will issue an Office Action requiring you to correct the deficiencies within a specified period (usually 2 months). Failure to respond to an Office Action may result in your application being considered abandoned.

Substantive Examination (4-6 Months)

Once the application passes the formality examination, the Bureau of Trademarks will conduct a substantive examination. This is the most critical phase, where the examiner evaluates whether the mark is registrable under the IP Code. The examiner will check for:

Whether the mark is distinctive and capable of identifying your goods/services
Whether the mark conflicts with any existing registered or pending trademarks
Whether the mark falls under any of the grounds for refusal (generic, descriptive, deceptive, immoral, etc.)
Whether the goods/services are correctly classified under the Nice Classification

The substantive examination typically takes 4 to 6 months. If the examiner finds issues, they will issue an Office Action. You may need to amend your application, argue your case, or provide additional evidence of distinctiveness.

Publication in the IP Philippines e-Gazette

If your application passes the substantive examination, the mark will be published in the IP Philippines e-Gazette for an opposition period of 30 days. During this period, any third party who believes they would be damaged by the registration of your mark can file a Notice of Opposition with the Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA).

Publication gives the public an opportunity to review your trademark and raise objections. If no opposition is filed within the 30-day period, or if an opposition is filed but later resolved in your favor, the application proceeds to registration.

Issuance of Certificate of Registration

If no opposition is filed (or any opposition is resolved in your favor), the Bureau of Trademarks will issue the Certificate of Registration. This certificate is your official proof of trademark ownership and provides you with exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the goods/services specified in your registration for 10 years from the date of registration.

You will receive the certificate electronically through the eServices portal or by mail. You may now use the ® symbol to indicate that your mark is a registered trademark.

File a Declaration of Actual Use (DAU)

After registration, you are required to file a Declaration of Actual Use (DAU) to prove that you are actually using the trademark in commerce. There are two key deadlines:

Within 3 years from the filing date of the application (not the registration date)
Within 1 year from the 5th anniversary of the registration date

The DAU must include evidence of actual use, such as photographs of the mark on products, packaging, advertisements, receipts, or invoices. Failure to file the DAU on time will result in the automatic removal of the trademark from the register.

Documentary Requirements

Below is a comprehensive list of documents and information you need to prepare when filing a trademark application with IPOPHL:

Requirement	Details	Notes
Application Form	Form TM-01 or online application via IPOPHL eServices	Online filing is recommended for faster processing and tracking
Mark Representation	Clear reproduction of the mark; JPEG/PNG for online filing (at least 250x250 pixels, max 3MB)	For word marks, the text of the mark is sufficient; for logos, provide a high-quality image file
List of Goods/Services	Complete list of goods and/or services grouped by Nice Classification class	Use specific descriptions; avoid vague or overly broad terms
Applicant Details	Full name, complete address, nationality, email, and phone number	For corporations, include SEC registration number; for sole proprietors, DTI registration
Priority Claim Documents	Certified copy of the earlier application from a Paris Convention or WTO member country	Only required if claiming priority; must be filed within 6 months of the first application
Valid Government-Issued ID	Any valid Philippine government ID (passport, driver's license, PhilSys ID, UMID, etc.)	For foreign applicants, a valid passport or equivalent identification document
Special Power of Attorney (SPA)	Notarized SPA authorizing the representative to act on behalf of the applicant	Only required if filing through an agent, attorney, or representative
Filing Fee	₱2,592+ per class (individual/small entity); ₱4,320+ per class (large entity)	Payable online, at IPOPHL cashier, or through accredited banks; keep the official receipt

Complete Example: Trademark Application

Below is a sample trademark application for a fictional restaurant business called "Bahay Kubo Kitchen", a Filipino restaurant and catering service. This example shows how the key sections of a trademark application form would be filled out:

=====================================================
  IPOPHL TRADEMARK APPLICATION - SAMPLE
  Form TM-01 (Online via eServices)
=====================================================

PART 1: APPLICANT INFORMATION
-----------------------------------------------------
Applicant Name:     Maria Santos dela Cruz
Business Name:      Bahay Kubo Kitchen
Business Type:      Sole Proprietorship
DTI Registration:   No. 12345678
Address:            123 Rizal Street, Brgy. Poblacion
                    Makati City, Metro Manila 1200
                    Philippines
Nationality:        Filipino
Email:              maria@bahaykubokitchen.ph
Phone:              +63 917 123 4567
Entity Size:        Small Entity (Individual)

PART 2: MARK INFORMATION
-----------------------------------------------------
Type of Mark:       Combined Mark (Word + Logo)
Mark Text:          BAHAY KUBO KITCHEN
Mark Description:   The mark consists of the words
                    "BAHAY KUBO KITCHEN" in stylized
                    font, with a graphic design of a
                    traditional Filipino nipa hut
                    (bahay kubo) above the text.
                    Colors claimed: Green, brown,
                    and white.
Mark File:          bahay-kubo-kitchen-logo.png
                    (300x300 pixels, 150 KB, PNG)
Date of First Use:  January 15, 2024
                    (in the Philippines)

PART 3: GOODS/SERVICES CLASSIFICATION
-----------------------------------------------------
Nice Classification: Class 43
Goods/Services:     Restaurant services; catering
                    services; food and drink services;
                    provision of Filipino cuisine;
                    take-out restaurant services;
                    temporary accommodation services;
                    food preparation services

PART 4: PRIORITY CLAIM
-----------------------------------------------------
Priority Claimed:   None

PART 5: REPRESENTATIVE
-----------------------------------------------------
Filing Method:      Direct (no representative)

PART 6: FEES
-----------------------------------------------------
Filing Fee (Class 43, Small Entity):   PHP 2,592.00
Total Amount Due:                      PHP 2,592.00
Payment Method:     Online Payment (eServices)

=====================================================
  APPLICATION SUBMITTED SUCCESSFULLY
  Reference No.: TM-2024-001234
  Filing Date:   March 1, 2024
  Status:        PENDING - Formality Examination
=====================================================

Note: This is a simplified example for educational purposes only. Actual trademark applications may require additional information depending on the type of mark, number of classes, priority claims, and other factors. Always refer to the official IPOPHL guidelines and forms when preparing your application.

Schedule of Fees

Below is the schedule of fees for trademark registration with IPOPHL. Fees vary depending on the applicant's entity size. Individual/small entity rates apply to natural persons and businesses with assets not exceeding ₱100 million. Large entity rates apply to corporations and businesses with assets exceeding ₱100 million.

Fee Type	Individual / Small Entity	Large Entity	When to Pay
Filing Fee (per class)	₱2,592.00	₱4,320.00	Upon filing the application
Additional Class Fee	₱2,592.00 per additional class	₱4,320.00 per additional class	Upon filing for multi-class applications
Publication Fee	₱1,620.00	₱2,700.00	After approval for publication in the e-Gazette
Issuance Fee (Certificate)	₱1,080.00	₱1,800.00	After the opposition period with no opposition filed
Renewal Fee (per class)	₱3,240.00	₱5,400.00	Every 10 years; can be filed 6 months before expiry
DAU Filing Fee	₱1,080.00	₱1,800.00	Within 3 years of filing; within 1 year of 5th anniversary
Late Renewal Surcharge	₱1,620.00	₱2,700.00	If renewal is filed within 6-month grace period after expiry
Assignment/Transfer Fee	₱1,620.00	₱2,700.00	When recording a change in ownership of the trademark

Note: The fees shown above are based on IPOPHL's published schedule of fees and may be subject to change. Online filing through eServices may offer slightly discounted rates. Always verify the current fees on the official IPOPHL website or eServices portal before filing. Fees are non-refundable once the application has been processed.

Trademark Registration Timeline

Here is an estimated timeline for the trademark registration process with IPOPHL, from filing to certificate issuance:

Month 1-2

Formality Examination

IPOPHL reviews your application for completeness and compliance with filing requirements. Office Actions may be issued if there are deficiencies.

Month 3-8

Substantive Examination

The examiner evaluates the registrability of your mark, checks for conflicts with existing trademarks, and determines whether the mark meets all legal requirements.

Month 9-10

Publication & Opposition Period

The mark is published in the IP Philippines e-Gazette for 30 days. Third parties may file oppositions during this period.

Month 10-12

Certificate Issuance

If no opposition is filed or any opposition is resolved favorably, the Certificate of Registration is issued. You may now use the ® symbol with your mark.

Important: The timeline above assumes a smooth process with no Office Actions, oppositions, or other delays. Complex cases involving opposition proceedings, multiple Office Actions, or appeals can take significantly longer — sometimes 2 to 3 years or more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to the most common questions about trademark registration with IPOPHL:

How long does trademark registration take?

The trademark registration process with IPOPHL typically takes 8 to 12 months from the date of filing to the issuance of the Certificate of Registration. This timeline includes the formality examination (1-2 months), substantive examination (4-6 months), publication and opposition period (1-2 months), and certificate issuance (1-2 months).

However, if Office Actions are issued, if there is an opposition proceeding, or if the application requires amendments, the process can take significantly longer. Complex opposition cases can extend the process to 2 to 3 years or more. Filing online through eServices generally results in faster processing compared to paper-based filings.

Can I register a trademark online?

Yes, you can register a trademark online through the IPOPHL eServices portal at eservices.ipophil.gov.ph. Online filing is the recommended method because it is faster, more convenient, and allows you to track your application status in real time. To file online, you need to create an account on the eServices portal, fill out the online application form, upload your mark representation and supporting documents, and pay the filing fee electronically.

The eServices portal is available 24/7, so you can file your application at any time without visiting the IPOPHL office. You will receive email notifications about the status of your application, Office Actions, and other communications from the examiner.

What is the Nice Classification?

The Nice Classification (officially known as the International Classification of Goods and Services for the Purposes of the Registration of Marks) is a system that categorizes all goods and services into 45 classes — Classes 1 through 34 cover goods (products), and Classes 35 through 45 cover services.

When you file a trademark application, you must identify which class or classes your goods/services fall under. Your trademark protection is limited to the specific class(es) you register in. For example, if you register your mark in Class 25 (clothing), it does not automatically protect you in Class 43 (restaurant services). Each additional class requires a separate filing fee.

The IPOPHL eServices portal includes a Nice Classification search tool to help you identify the correct class(es) for your goods/services. You can also consult the WIPO Nice Classification database online.

What happens if someone opposes my trademark?

If someone files a Notice of Opposition against your trademark during the 30-day publication period, the case will be handled by IPOPHL's Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA). The opposition proceeding is a quasi-judicial process where both parties present their arguments and evidence.

The opposer must prove that they would be damaged by the registration of your mark — typically because it conflicts with their existing mark or rights. You will have the opportunity to file an answer and present your defense. The BLA will then issue a decision either sustaining the opposition (rejecting your application) or dismissing it (allowing your registration to proceed).

Opposition proceedings can be lengthy, often taking 1 to 2 years or more. Either party may appeal the BLA's decision to the IPOPHL Director General, and further to the Court of Appeals if necessary. It is advisable to engage a trademark attorney if your application faces an opposition.

Do I need a lawyer to file a trademark?

No, you are not required to hire a lawyer to file a trademark application with IPOPHL. Individual applicants and business owners can file directly through the eServices portal or in person at the IPOPHL office. The online filing system is designed to be user-friendly and guides you through the application process step by step.

However, hiring a trademark attorney or IP agent is highly recommended in the following situations: if your mark is complex (e.g., a combined word and design mark), if you are filing in multiple classes, if you need to respond to Office Actions, if your application faces an opposition, or if you are filing for international protection through the Madrid Protocol. Foreign applicants without a Philippine address are required to appoint a local representative or agent.

What is a Declaration of Actual Use (DAU)?

A Declaration of Actual Use (DAU) is a sworn statement filed with IPOPHL confirming that you are actually using your registered trademark in commerce in connection with the goods/services specified in your registration. The DAU must be accompanied by evidence of use, such as photographs of the mark on products, packaging, signage, advertisements, invoices, or receipts.

The DAU must be filed at two key deadlines:

Within 3 years from the filing date of the application
Within 1 year from the 5th anniversary of the registration date

Failure to file the DAU on time will result in the automatic removal of the trademark from the IPOPHL register. This is one of the most commonly overlooked requirements, so it is critical to track your deadlines carefully.

Can I trademark a common word?

It depends on how the word is used. A common or ordinary word can be trademarked if it is used in a distinctive way in connection with goods or services that are unrelated to the word's ordinary meaning. For example, the word "Apple" is a common word for a type of fruit, but it is a highly distinctive trademark for computers and electronics because the word has no descriptive relationship to those products.

However, a common word cannot be trademarked if it is generic (the common name for the product itself) or merely descriptive of the goods or services. For example, you cannot trademark the word "Bread" for a bakery or "Fast" for delivery services. In some cases, a descriptive mark can be registered if it has acquired secondary meaning — meaning consumers have come to associate the word with a specific brand through extensive use and promotion.

How do I renew my trademark?

Trademark registrations in the Philippines are valid for 10 years from the date of registration and can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. To renew your trademark, you must file a Renewal Application with the Bureau of Trademarks and pay the renewal fee.

The renewal application can be filed within 6 months before the expiration date of the current registration. If you miss this window, you have a 6-month grace period after the expiration date to file a late renewal, but you will need to pay a surcharge in addition to the renewal fee.

If you fail to renew within the grace period, your trademark registration will expire and your mark will lose its legal protection. You would then need to file a new application from scratch. It is highly recommended to set calendar reminders well in advance of your renewal deadline.

Tips for a Successful Trademark Application

Choose a Strong Mark

The strongest trademarks are fanciful (invented words like "Kodak" or "Xerox"), arbitrary (common words used for unrelated products, like "Apple" for computers), or suggestive (marks that hint at the product's qualities without directly describing them, like "Netflix" for streaming). Avoid generic or descriptive marks, as they are difficult or impossible to register and protect.

Be Specific with Your Goods/Services

When listing your goods and services in the application, be as specific as possible. Avoid vague descriptions like "all goods in Class 25" — instead, list the specific items such as "t-shirts, polo shirts, jeans, sneakers, and baseball caps." Specific descriptions are less likely to face objections from the examiner and provide clearer protection.

Consider Filing in Multiple Classes

If your business covers goods and services in multiple Nice Classification classes, consider filing a multi-class application to secure broader protection. For example, a clothing brand that also operates retail stores might file in Class 25 (clothing) and Class 35 (retail services). While each additional class incurs a separate fee, the investment provides more comprehensive brand protection.

Monitor Your Trademark

After registration, actively monitor the market and the IPOPHL e-Gazette for potentially infringing or confusingly similar marks. If you discover a conflicting mark being used or applied for, you can file an opposition or take legal action. Trademark owners have the responsibility to enforce their rights — IPOPHL does not monitor infringement on your behalf.

Important Reminders

Search before you file: Always conduct a comprehensive trademark search using TMView, the IPOPHL IP Search Portal, and the WIPO Global Brand Database before filing your application. This helps you avoid conflicts with existing marks and reduces the risk of your application being refused.
File the Declaration of Actual Use (DAU): This is a mandatory requirement that many trademark owners overlook. You must file a DAU within 3 years from the filing date and again within 1 year from the 5th anniversary of registration. Failure to file results in automatic removal of your mark from the register.
Renew every 10 years: Trademark registrations expire after 10 years. File your renewal application within 6 months before the expiration date. A 6-month grace period is available with a surcharge, but if you miss this entirely, your trademark lapses.
Monitor for infringement: Regularly check the market, e-commerce platforms, and social media for unauthorized use of your mark. You are responsible for enforcing your trademark rights — IPOPHL does not proactively police infringement.
Use the ® symbol after registration: Once your trademark is registered, you may use the ® (registered trademark) symbol to indicate that your mark is legally protected. Before registration, you may use the ™ (trademark) or SM (service mark) symbol to indicate that you claim rights to the mark.
Keep records of use: Maintain comprehensive records of how you use your trademark in commerce — including photographs, advertisements, receipts, invoices, packaging samples, and promotional materials. These records are essential for filing the DAU and for defending your rights in disputes.
Respond to Office Actions promptly: If IPOPHL issues an Office Action regarding your application, respond within the deadline (usually 2 months). Failure to respond may result in your application being considered abandoned.
Consider international protection: If you plan to expand your business internationally, consider filing trademark applications in other countries or using the Madrid Protocol (to which the Philippines is a party) for international registrations based on your Philippine filing.
Update your contact information: Keep your address, email, and contact details up to date with IPOPHL. If the office cannot reach you due to outdated information, you may miss important communications, deadlines, or Office Actions.
Consult a professional for complex cases: While you can file a straightforward trademark application on your own, consider consulting an IP attorney or agent for complex matters such as opposition proceedings, multi-class applications, international filings, or marks that may face registrability issues.

Need Help?

If you have questions or need assistance with trademark registration, you can contact the IPOPHL Bureau of Trademarks directly:

IPOPHL Bureau of Trademarks

Address: 28th Floor, Upper McKinley Building, 28th Street corner 5th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City 1634, Philippines
Trunk Line: (02) 8238-6300
Email: mail@ipophil.gov.ph
Website: www.ipophil.gov.ph
eServices: eservices.ipophil.gov.ph

Office Hours & Other Info

Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except holidays)
Online Filing: Available 24/7 via the eServices portal
Regional Offices: IPOPHL has satellite offices in Cebu, Davao, and other cities for in-person filing and consultations
IP Academy: IPOPHL offers free IP seminars, webinars, and training programs for inventors, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs through the IP Academy
Trademark Search: Use TMView at tmdn.org/tmview to search existing trademarks before filing

Other Helpful Resources

IPOPHL IP Hub: Visit the IP Hub for in-person consultations and free IP clinics
WIPO Nice Classification: Browse the full Nice Classification at wipo.int/classifications/nice
Madrid Protocol: For international trademark registration, visit the WIPO Madrid System page
DTI (for Trade Names): If you need to register a business name (trade name), visit the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) website
SEC (for Corporations): Corporate applicants should ensure their company name is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) before filing a trademark application

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.

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