On April 23 2016 in celebration of the World IP Day, the Intellectual Property Office (IPOPHL) launched its improved electronic filing system for trade marks called IPOPHL TM eFile. Unlke the previous e-filing system where payment has to be deposited physically to the designated bank, the new TMeFile is linked to three different payment channels, hence, the filer need not go to the IPOPHL office to file trade mark applications. The new system was initiated by newly appointed IPOPHL Director General Josephine Rima-Santiago. The added features of the new system are:
1) It allows the submission of documents such as the special power of attorney, request for priority examination, declaration of actual use, together with the online application. However, if these documents are not submitted with the online application, they would have to be submitted physically to the IPOPHL.
2) Because of its linkage with two other tools such as the ASEAN TM Class and TMview, the classification of goods and services are made easier, and the system can generate preliminary search reports which may be used as reference.
The IPOPHL eTMfile was developed in close collaboration with the the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), towards the adaptation of IT tools which can be used not only by The Philippines but also by other ASEAN IP offices. Now being targeted for launching also within the year is the IPOPHL eDOCfile, an advanced electronic filing system allowing the online submission of practically all types of trade mark documents including responses to office actions, powers of attorney, and assignments and allowing for digital signing by both the IPOPHL and the applicant/agent.
The IPOPHL is the first office to make available these systems in the ASEAN region.
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Editha R Hechanova |
Hechanova & Co., Inc.Salustiana D. Ty Tower104 Paseo de Roxas AvenueMakati City 1229, PhilippinesTel: (63) 2 812-6561Fax: (63) 2 888-4290editharh@hechanova.com.ph
