The Intellectual Property of the Philippines (IPOPHL) joined GMA Network in celebrating the successful run of the latter’s “Stream Responsibly, Fight Piracy“ campaign, which recently marked its first year in denouncing piracy and promoting legitimate ways for consuming copyrighted works.
“GMA’s commitment sets a shining example for the industry, inspiring others to join the crusade against piracy and champion the cause of ethical and original content consumption,” IPOPHL deputy director general Ann Claire Cabochan said at the GMA celebration held earlier this month. The media company is a partner of IPOPHL in combatting piracy.
Cabochan lauded artist Ruru Madrid, GMA Network’s newest anti-piracy ambassador. Madrid works together with IPOPHL’s own anti-piracy ambassador Matteo Guidicelli in the GMA drama action series “Black Rider.”
“Taking on the role of an anti-piracy ambassador is a significant commitment towards protecting creative content and intellectual property rights. Your dedication to this cause sets a powerful example for others. Remember, IP education and awareness are keys in this fight against piracy. Your efforts will surely make a difference in safeguarding the hard work and ingenuity of creators and artists like you,” Cabochan said.
Cabochan also took stock of another cause for celebration for the creative industries: the new record gross receipts of P1.07 billion garnered at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2023 as of Jan. 9, 2023.
Cabochan said these hard-earned revenues by artists would have fetched heftier amounts were it not for the pirated activities that proliferated on social media at the height of the MMFF.
“Our IP Rights Enforcement Office (IEO) has been receiving reports that pirated copies of these movies are made available online already. Reports of piracy-related incidents during the MMFF are distressing and undermine the hard work and creativity of filmmakers. It’s disheartening to witness these illegal activities that not only violate intellectual property rights but also harm the entire film industry,” she said.
Cabochan said the Supplemental Rules on Voluntary Administrative Site-Blocking, that will take effect on Jan. 24, 2024, would alleviate the problem of digital piracy.
IPOPHL also emphasized the role of consumers in acknowledging and respecting the hard work and creativity of creators by consuming their works legally.