The site was also updated with an IP Case Online search engine and a trademark publication called e-Gazette Trademarks, which contains news on intellectual property in the Philippines. TM Online, IP Case Online Search and e-Gazette are IPO’s initial steps toward a fully operational e-government status.
TM Online is an electronic filing system that is a faster and more convenient alternative to the registration of trademarks, service marks, geographical indications and other marks of ownership. It was developed as part of the IPO’s efforts to facilitate trademark applications by local and foreign clients.
IPO signed up Equitable-PCI Bank for the electronic payment of fees using its FASTNet e-payment module.
On the other hand, filers would need to open an account with Equitable-PCI to pay corresponding charges for applications.
By 2005, the payment gateway facility will be expanded to include other banks belonging to the Megalink network.
The IP Case Online Search is a searchable database of IP Cases filed with both the IPO and the regular Courts. It details the status of a case as well as the schedule of hearings.
IPO expects that the IP Case Online Search would enhance the protection of enforcement of intellectual property rights in the country by keeping the IP stakeholders and public informed of the status of IP cases.
Meanwhile, e-Gazette streamlines the procedure in the publication of marks of ownership. The e-Gazette is expected to enhance enforcement of IP rights as all interested parties can access allowed trademarks published for opposition, notices of cancellation, surrender, amendment, disclaimer and correction of trademark applications or registrations.
The IPO is also setting up other Internet-based transactions that will enable it to further streamline its procedures and processes, not only for filing trademark applications, but also for its other products and services.
Autor: Alexander Villafania
Quelle: INQ7, 27.12.2004
