Q. The Philippines now adopted the First-to-File Rule?
A. Yes. With this, applicants who first file a trademark application in the Philippines will have a better right under the law than those who first use a trademark but has not applied with our Intellectual Property Office. Mere intent to use of a trademark is already sufficient for an applicant to file a trademark application.

Q. After the corresponding registration has been issued , what else do I have to do to maintain the registration?

A. You have to file a “Declaration of Actual Use” within three (3) years from the time the trademark registration has been issued.

Q. What happens if I fail to file the “Declaration of Actual Use”?

A. The Registration Certificate shall be cancelled by the Intellectual Property Office.