Philippines inks deal to elevate agri-fishery products as premium global brands

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) signed a memorandum of agreement on Wednesday aimed at transforming the country's agricultural and fishery products into premium global brands through geographical indication (GI) protection. According to the DA, GIs create origin-based brands such as Champagne from France, Scotch Whisky from Scotland, Parmigiano Reggiano from Italy, or Kobe Beef from Japan. "Their names command premium prices because consumers associate them with a specific place, heritage and quality," the DA said in a statement. Key products slated for GI protection include Cordillera Heirloom Rice, Davao Pomelo, Zambales Mangoes, Davao Cacao, Davao Durian, Bonuan Bangus, Quezon Lambanog, Camarines Norte Queen Pineapple, and Oriental Mindoro Calamansi. Meanwhile, the GI registration for Bohol Ubi Kinampay is already underway with IPOPHL, it added. "For generations, our farmers, fisherfolk and indigenous communities have cultivated products whose quality and identity are deeply rooted in their places of origin. Through geographical indications, we can protect these unique products, preserve their authenticity, enhance consumer confidence, and create greater opportunities for our farming and fishing communities," said DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. The agreement provides for a joint technical working group will be created to design a national GI roadmap, empower producer groups, refine certification and tracking systems, and assist local goods in entering higher-paying local and international markets. "By protecting origin, the Philippines hopes to protect value—and ensure more of that value stays with the farmers, fisherfolk and communities that created it," the DA said. — VDV, GMA News