Record-High PHP26.86 Billion Fake Products Seized By Government In 2023

The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) announced that the government successfully seized counterfeit goods valued at a record-high Php26.86 billion in 2023.

IPOPHL noted that 94 percent, or Php25 billion, of the seized goods last year were from Bureau of Customs (BOC) operations. I Photo: Bureau of Customs PH Facebook

IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba stated that this amount represented a surge of 183 percent from Php9.49 billion worth of seized counterfeits in 2022.

Barba attributed this record-high value of confiscated counterfeits to the increased operations of relevant government agencies led by the National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR).

He added, "With more aggressive and strategic efforts, coupled with swift coordination with the team and with IP rights holders, the NCIPR members were able to ensure the success of its seizure operations."

NCIPR Chairman, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, emphasized the harm caused by counterfeit products to the economy and highlighted the serious health risks they pose, particularly with essentials like food, medicines, and cosmetics.

He appealed to consumers to choose genuine, locally-made products to ensure their hard-earned money brings real value and supports the community.

Pascual also stressed the crucial role of NCIPR in economic progress, stating that eliminating illegal goods like counterfeits ensures fair and safe market operations, boosting consumer confidence and investor trust.

He added, "Our zero-tolerance for illegal acts against IP infringement safeguards business creativity and innovation."

IPOPHL’s IP Rights Enforcement Office Supervising Director Christine Pangilinan-Canlapan clarified that "a significant number of seizures does not exclusively signify increased counterfeit trade in the country."

She highlighted that a higher value of confiscated goods indicates effective seizure operations and transparent coordination with IP rights holders.

IPOPHL noted that 94 percent, or Php25 billion, of the seized goods last year were from Bureau of Customs (BOC) operations.

Additionally, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confiscated a total of Php1.2 billion; the Philippine National Police (PNP) with a Php285.93 million value; the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with a Php1.58-million value; and the Optical Media Board (OMB), with a Php221,500 worth of confiscations.

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