IPOPHL Calls for Public Support of Legitimate Sports Industry During National Intellectual Property Month
In a significant push to safeguard the sports sector, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) is urging Filipinos to exclusively support legitimate sports merchandise and watch games through authorized channels. This appeal marks the observance of National Intellectual Property Month (NIPM) this April, emphasizing the critical role fans play in sustaining the industry.
IPOPHL Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo highlighted that choosing authentic products and official broadcasts directly benefits creators and athletes. "When we turn to fake goods or illegal streams, we undermine the system that allows sports to thrive," he stated, warning that counterfeit goods and illegal streaming continue to threaten revenues essential for funding athletes, events, and grassroots programs.
Global Impact and Local Challenges
Globally, the sports industry is valued at over $400 billion, with intellectual property driving significant revenues from broadcasting rights, merchandise, and sponsorships. However, IPOPHL noted that piracy and counterfeiting remain widespread issues. International studies reveal that illegal streaming and fake sports goods cost industries billions of dollars annually, posing a severe threat to economic stability.
In the Philippines, the problem is particularly acute. Counterfeit sportswear and equipment are widely available in both physical and online markets, while unauthorized streaming platforms continue to siphon off legitimate revenues. This not only harms businesses but also jeopardizes the long-term growth and innovation within the sports sector.
Theme and Advocacy Efforts
This year's NIPM, themed "IP in Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate!", aligns with the World Intellectual Property Organization's initiative to highlight the role of intellectual property in protecting innovation and value in sports. IPOPHL Deputy Director General Ann Claire Credo-Cabochan emphasized that Filipinos' passion for sports should extend to supporting the industry responsibly.
The agency has issued a clear call to action, urging the public to:
- Purchase licensed merchandise from reputable sources.
- Use official viewing platforms for watching sports events.
- Report instances of counterfeit goods and illegal streaming sites to authorities.
By taking these steps, IPOPHL stresses that protecting intellectual property helps ensure the sustainability and prosperity of the sports industry for years to come.
