At the 147th Annual Meeting of the International Trademark Association (INTA) held in San Diego, California, from May 17–21, 2025, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) engaged with global Intellectual Property (IP) experts and enforcement officials. The conference highlighted emerging trends in IP protection and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing cross-border enforcement challenges.

Featuring focused sessions for patent and IP experts, the program explored cutting-edge updates in patent legislation, enforcement techniques, and compelling case studies. It fostered an international exchange of ideas, underscoring the vital contribution of intellectual property to economic growth and innovation.

Representing the BOC was Director Verne Y. Enciso of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, who engaged in discussions with counterparts from various customs administrations. During the event, the United States Customs and Border Protection (U.S. CBP) expressed support for the Philippines’ initiatives and recommended that the BOC undertake a feasibility study for the digitalization of the Intellectual Property Rights Division’s (IPRD) Recordation System. This initiative is seen as a step toward improving enforcement efficiency, transparency, and alignment with global best practices.

The BOC’s participation in the INTA Annual Meeting underscores its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and aligning with global best practices in intellectual property enforcement. Key initiatives, such as the proposed feasibility study on the digitalization of the IPRD Recordation System, reflect ongoing efforts to improve enforcement efficiency and transparency.

These actions support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda to modernize trade systems and enhance government processes, in line with Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s 5-point priority program—particularly in the areas of digitalizing customs procedures, simplifying processes, and facilitating secure trade.

“Digital innovation and international cooperation are central to reinforcing our IP enforcement framework,” said Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio. “By aligning with global standards, we aim to foster trust among our partners, protect legitimate businesses, and support an economy that attracts long-term investment.”