By Junex Doronio
MANILA — For its record haul of P26.86 billion worth of fake goods from January to December last year, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Friday (15 March 2024) lauded the National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR).
NCIPR is an interagency body headed by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) that formulates and implements plans and policies and strengthens the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights in the country.
“Counterfeit products pose serious health risks, particularly with essentials like food, medicines, and cosmetics. I appeal to consumers to turn away from these fakes and choose genuine, locally-made products, ensuring their hard-earned money brings real value and supports our community,” Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said.
IPOPHL said in its news release that the NCIPR booked a record haul of P26.86 billion of fake goods from January to December last year.
Pascual praised the efforts of the NCIPR as the DTI chief urged consumers to stop patronizing counterfeit goods and turn to the comfort and quality of local products instead.
NCIPR acting head and IP Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) Director General Rowel Barba disclosed that based on previous NCIPR meetings, most of the Bureau of Customs’ seizures consisted of apparel.
On the other hand, the majority of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP’s) haul was cigarettes taken from warehouses in various provinces.
(el Amigo/MNM)
