Leading broadcast company GMA Network and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) have joined hands in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) signed last October 5 to combat digital piracy in the Philippines. This collaboration marks a crucial step towards protecting intellectual property rights in the broadcast and content creation industry.
The MOU was signed by GMA Network Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong and IPOPHL Director General Atty. Rowel Barba.
Also in attendance, representing the GMA Anti-Piracy Committee were GMA First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia, GMA Network First Vice President for Legal Affairs Atty. Lynn P. Delfin. From IPOPHL, Deputy Director General Atty. Ann Claire C. Cabochan, and Supervising Director of IPR Enforcement Office Atty. Christine V. Pangilinan-Canlapan were also present.
The memorandum of understanding (MOU) between GMA and IPOPHL establishes a cooperative framework to protect and enforce IP rights. This partnership aims to strengthen the fight against digital piracy in the Philippines and safeguard the livelihoods of creators and innovators.
Yalong, a representative of GMA Network, emphasized the importance of protecting content creators’ rights, especially in the digital age. The network is fully supportive of IPOPHL’s efforts to educate the public, particularly those heavily involved in digital assets, about the rights of content creators.
DG Barba acknowledged GMA Network’s commitment to creativity and innovation and highlighted the moral imperative of protecting intellectual property. This partnership is not just a legal or commercial endeavor but a stand for creators’ rights and the preservation of cultural ideas.
Francia, in her opening remarks, emphasized the shared advocacy of GMA and IPOPHL against piracy. The MOU formalizes their collaboration, setting the stage for a more effective fight against digital piracy and the protection of intellectual property rights.
Atty. Delfin stressed the need for a holistic approach to protect the intellectual property rights of various industry stakeholders. This collaboration represents a step in the right direction.
Atty. Cabochan underlined the united front against piracy and the commitment to safeguard the rights of artists, media producers, and content creators.
Atty. Canlapan highlighted the fight against online piracy, which not only undermines intellectual property but also poses cybersecurity risks. The partnership is dedicated to protecting content creators and journalists.
In addition to the MOU, GMA Network and IPOPHL conducted an Intellectual Property Learning Session for GMA employees, involving over 240 participants. This session aimed to educate GMA employees on the importance of protecting intellectual property in the digital age, strengthening the foundation of creative and journalistic excellence.