First-to-file protection
The Philippines follows a first-to-file trademark framework. For market entry, trademark filing should be treated as an early risk-control step, not a later branding formality.
Common squatting risks
Risks may include SEC company-name registration, DTI business-name localization, similar trademark filings, transliteration variants and surname-based marks. Each system should be checked separately.
Five checks before market entry
- IPOPHL trademark search for identical and similar marks.
- SEC company-name check for registered or reserved corporate names.
- DTI business-name check for sole-proprietor trade names.
- .ph domain review and defensive domain planning.
- Key social media and e-commerce account checks.
Trademark filing workflow
Flying Eagle supports preliminary searches, class matching, document preparation, local filing coordination, office-action response, publication monitoring and registration follow-up.
Declaration of Actual Use
Philippines trademarks require Declaration of Actual Use submissions at specific stages, including within three years from filing, within one year from the fifth anniversary of registration, and within one year from the fifth anniversary of each renewal. Evidence should show genuine use in the Philippines market.
9G work visa
For companies assigning staff or hiring foreign employees in the Philippines, the 9G Pre-Arranged Employees Commercial Visa is a common route. The Bureau of Immigration FAQ explains that it is generally for a foreign national employed by a Philippine-based company, with the company acting as petitioner.
SRRV and long-term stay
The Philippine Retirement Authority describes SRRV as a special non-immigrant visa issued by the Bureau of Immigration through PRA for eligible foreign nationals and former Filipinos. Assessment should consider age, dependents, deposits, medical and police clearances, stay plans and asset arrangements.