MANILA, Philippines – Entrepreneurs planning to use the names and marks of the Philippines' premier state university for commercial purposes can no longer do so without permission from university officials.
In a memorandum released on Monday, September 14, the University of the Philippines (UP) announced that 4 names and marks identifiable to the university are now registered marks.
Citing both the university's Intellectual Property Rights Policy and the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines, UP president Alfredo Pascual said no person will be allowed "to use the trade and service marks of UP without its permission or license."
Memorandum Number PAEP 15-48 listed the following names that are now registered marks belonging to the university:
Mark: Unibersidad ng Pilipinas
Registration No.: 4/2014/00011408
Date of Registration: 26 March 2015
Mark: UPCAT – University of the Philippines College Admission Test
Registration No.: 4/2014/00011409
Date of Registration: 26 March 2015
Mark: UP Fighting Maroons
Registration No.: 4/2014/00011410
Date of Registration: 5 March 2015
Mark: UP LAE – University of the Philippine Law Aptitude Exam
Registration No.: 4/2014/00011411
Date of Registration: 26 March 2015
The memorandum effectively bans the unauthorized use of these registered marks on commercial merchandise such as apparel, bags, and novelty items, among others.
"Unauthorized use, manufacture, distribution and commercialization of any merchandise such as but not limited to apparels, bags, novelty items and other similar products bearing the said marks, including other marks that exclusively belong to the University known as the University of the Philippines Name and Seal, and the UP Oblation, are strictly prohibited and shall among others, constitute the criminal liability for trademark infringement," the memorandum read.
"To protect its goodwill, UP shall actively prosecute any person or entity engaged in these kinds of activity," it added.
But the prohibition does not apply to entities officially recognized and affiliated with the university.
UP units, recognized student organizations, accredited academic and administrative organizations, and affiliated foundations will be allowed to continue using the marks "in accordance with existing guidelines."
Meanwhile, private enterprises who want to use the marks will need to obtain licenses from the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs through the Technology Transfer and Business Development Office. – Katerina Francisco/Rappler.com