By Nimfa Estrellado DTI Quezon, through Negosyo Center–Lucban with the Local Government Unit (LGU) and Local Tourism Office of Lucban, Quezo...
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| DTI Quezon, through Negosyo Center–Lucban with the Local Government Unit (LGU) and Local Tourism Office of Lucban, Quezon, held a free face-to-face seminar on Intellectual Property Rights and Effective Packaging, Labeling, and Branding at the Lucban Municipal Museum and Art Gallery, Escuela Pia Bldg., Lucban, Quezon. (Photo from Lucban LGU) |
LUCBAN, Quezon - A seminar for Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSME) was held here on June 21, 2023, with the aim of informing MSME on the importance of protecting their intellectual property rights and developing effective packaging, labeling, and branding strategies to increase their marketability.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Quezon Provincial Office, through Negosyo Center (NC) – Lucban, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) and Municipal Tourism Office of Lucban , held a free seminar on Intellectual Property Rights and Effective Packaging, Labeling, and Branding at the Lucban Municipal Museum and Art Gallery, Escuela Pia Bldg., Lucban, Quezon.
The activity aims to support the effort of the LGU Lucban in creating TATAK LUCBAN, a local initiative campaign to maintain integrity, preserve authenticity, promote quality, develop and protect Lucban products.
One of the speakers, Joel Caalaman, Intellectual Property (IP) Field Operations Specialist, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) IV-A Regional Office, provided an overview of Intellectual Property before proceeding to the discussion of Intellectual Property Rights, where he highlighted the following topics: Types of Intellectual Property Rights including patents, utility models, industrial designs, and copyrights; Trademark Registration and Maintenance; and the importance of IP Protection.
He also presented IPOPHIL’s Incentive Programs for MSME including Juana Make a Mark, Juan for the World, and Juana Patent/Design. These incentives aim to help MSMEs reduce their expenses in protecting their brands.
He said that protecting one's intellectual property is critical to maintaining a competitive edge in the market and that the IP of the DTI has been working with the private sector to promote awareness of intellectual property rights.
He also emphasized the importance of registering trademarks, patents, and copyrights to prevent infringement and unauthorized use.
Moreover, he added that having a strong branding strategy and eye-catching packaging can help businesses stand out and attract more customers. By investing in these aspects, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success and growth in the industry.
Meanwhile, Trade and Industry Specialist Honeylee Eclavea from the DTI-Quezon Provincial Office shared tips on creating a unique brand identity that resonates with consumers and differentiates from competitors.
Eclavea highlighted the reasons and functions of food packaging. She also explained the packaging classification, types of materials used in food packaging, mandatory labeling requirements, and the importance and value of branding.
She emphasized the importance of understanding the target market and their preferences, as well as conducting market research to identify gaps and opportunities in the industry.
Additionally, she advised entrepreneurs to prioritize consistency in their branding efforts across all platforms and touchpoints.
After the discussions, an open forum was done to allow for participant’s queries, clarifications, and recommendations, along with professional speakers from IPOPHL and DTI Quezon, together with NCBC Lucban, and the LGU Lucban.
Following the forum, Hon. Arnel C. Abcede, Municipal Vice Mayor, delivered an inspirational message and pledge to support the DTI initiatives for the welfare of local entrepreneurs. Afterwards, certificates of appreciation were awarded to the resource speakers.
The seminar ended with a closing message delivered by Maria Jenifer Babat, Tourism Operations Officer I, in which she conveyed her profound gratitude to IPOPHL and DTI Quezon for this wonderful opportunity.
The activity was attended by a total of 60 participants consists of 31 MSME and 29 Potential Entrepreneur and was well received by the attendees, who expressed their appreciation for the valuable insights and practical advice they gained from the event.
Babat said this will also help local merchants promote their goods and attract more visitors.
She added that the seminar's goal was to get local businesses in Lucban, Quezon, to highlight their unique culture and products through creative packaging, labeling, and branding in order to attract tourists and residents alike.
She felt the seminar gave her new insight into the field and emphasized the need to change with the times.
Babat also stressed the importance of local businesses working together to improve the tourist experience.
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