Philippine authorities have seized an estimated P29.2 billion worth of counterfeit goods from January to November this year, underscoring the scale of the country’s ongoing battle against fake products, according to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL).
IPOPHL Director-General Nathaniel Arevalo said apparel—including counterfeit shoes, bags, and similar fashion items—accounted for about 40 percent of the confiscated goods. Global brands such as Nike and Louis Vuitton have flagged the persistent spread of fake footwear and bags, while Gucci and Adidas have also previously raised concerns over similar violations.
The seizures were carried out through the National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR), an inter-agency body composed of 15 government agencies, including the Departments of Trade and Industry and Justice, the Philippine National Police, and the Bureau of Customs. Arevalo noted that NCIPR has yet to consolidate all enforcement data, meaning the figure could still change.
Still, the preliminary tally is lower than the P40.99 billion worth of counterfeit goods seized in 2024. Arevalo said the decline could signal mixed outcomes.
“It is good because it means the proliferation of fake goods has been tempered,” he said. “It could also mean that some IPR concerns have not been acted upon. That is what we will find out once all reports come in.”
The estimated value of the seizures is pegged to the retail price of genuine products, highlighting the potential revenue losses faced by legitimate businesses and brand owners.
Beyond physical goods, IPOPHL is also cracking down on digital piracy. Arevalo said the agency facilitated the takedown of 20 websites, mostly offering free movie streaming, after complaints from production companies and authorized platforms. The action included mirror sites to prevent quick reappearances.
IPOPHL coordinates website takedowns with major internet service providers, including Globe, PLDT/Smart, Sky Cable, and Dito, as enforcement against intellectual property violations increasingly shifts online.
