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Message from the APAA President
Hari Subramaniam
President
APAA
On behalf of APAA International, the ExCom and AdCom members and the Philippines Recognised Group, I am delighted to extend my invitation to all distinguished members, observers and invited guests to attend the 76th Council Meeting of the APAA in the City of Manila, scheduled from November 18 to 21, 2024.
Manila is known for its remnants of Spanish colonial history, stunning Filipino art and culture, and a variety of international and delicious Filipino food. It is a city that provides a combination of old world culture and contemporary activities, making it a perfect destination for both conferences and leisure travels.
The host group of this Council Meeting, the Recognized Group of Philippines, have done it a few times before. As always, the Philippines Recognised group has planned a very exciting, professionally lucrative and socially thrilling set of activities along with delectable cuisine for every meal to suit the interests and palates of every attendee.
In addition to the usual enriching committee meetings and workshops, the program includes an exciting Mock trial with a surprise element thrown in, where lawyers from different jurisdictions indulge in what promises to be a good “cockfighting”. The social programmes include a truly fascinating theme dinner at an exotic location, and beautifully planned excursions. I look forward to seeing you all in Manila on November 18, 2024.
Message from the APAA Past President
Alonzo Q. Ancheta
IPAP Director
IPAP Past President & Founding Member
APAA Past President (2006-2009)
Welcome!
As we gather once again for the prestigious Asian Patent Attorneys Association’s (APAA) 76th Council Meeting, I am honored to extend a warm welcome to all our esteemed colleagues, participants, and partners. APAA 2024 is more than just a gathering of minds; it is a convergence of ideas, innovations, and collaborations that will shape the future of intellectual property in Asia and beyond.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of intellectual property law and the remarkable growth of the APAA. What began as a small circle of dedicated professionals has grown into a dynamic and influential organization, championing the protection of intellectual property across diverse jurisdictions. This journey has been as challenging as it has been rewarding, and the continued progress of APAA is a testament to the collective effort and vision of its members.
This year’s conference holds special significance as it takes place in the Philippines, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The Philippines stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our profession. Our vibrant economy, coupled with a deep respect for intellectual property rights, makes the Philippines an ideal location for this year’s discussions and exchanges.
APAA 2024 promises to be a platform for learning, networking, and forging new partnerships that will drive the advancement of intellectual property law across the region. We are excited to host you in our beautiful country and look forward to a conference filled with meaningful insights and unforgettable experiences.
On this occasion, I cannot help but recall our once APAA booster called “FLU” which stood for Friendship, Love and Understanding!
Thank you for being a part of APAA 2024. Mabuhay and welcome to the Philippines!
Message from the APAA 2024 Chairperson
Lorna Patajo-Kapunan
Chairman,
APAA Organizing Committee
Dear APAA Members, Observers, and Guests:
The Philippine Group is honored to host the 2024 APAA 76th Council Meeting in Manila from November 18 – 21, 2024. We have worked with so much energy and passion to ensure that, like all our previous hostings, this 2024 APAA event will be an unforgettable and delightful experience.
Manila offers you a microcosm of the Philippines – a blend of the Old and the New. You will have the opportunity to discover our iconic churches, old historic sites, our breathtaking sunset and beaches during the excursion day, and much more at the post and pre conference tours.
The various conference sites are located in the thriving modern complex in and around the SMX Convention Center, not far from the Makati and Bonifacio Global City financial districts.
On top of enjoying the Old and the New, Manila is a shopper’s delight. Filipino food, local crafts and artifacts, our famous pearls and fine jewelry – all are unique and enticing and very affordable.
The core of all Council Meetings also are the various committee meetings and workshops. We have prepared interesting topics and speakers on recent trends and developments in Intellectual Property.
Manila beckons to you—the charm of the city, the friendliness of our people, the exciting social events which we have prepared for you. The opportunity to rekindle old friendships and develop new acquaintances and working relationships should not be missed!
On behalf of the Philippine Group, we welcome you. MABUHAY!
Message from the APAA 2024 Co-Chairperson
Pablo M. Gancayco
Co-Chair,
2024 APAA Council Meeting in the Philippines
Attending APAA meetings has been a yearly tradition for more than 33 years now for me and my wife Dot. Never missing any conference since 1990, we have seen all the wonderful host-countries, savored their food, and learned about their interesting history and colorful culture.
The Philippines has the daunting task of hosting this year’s conference and we hope to match, if not surpass, the successes of the previous conferences. There is a lot of excitement in the air. Participants are looking forward to learning more about IP from excellent programs and speakers, and at the same time are thrilled to be rekindling friendships and forming new ones in a country which is true to its mantra “It’s more fun in the Philippines.“
There is much expectation for world-class entertainment; gustatory dishes that, like our Philippine history, is a mixture of the East and the West; shopping for quality but inexpensive products; and, even watching the picturesque Manila sunset at the bayside.
But, one may ask, what is the Philippines best known for to the rest of the world? Our smiling, friendly and hospitable people.
As Co-Chair of this year’s conference, I can assure you that the very hardworking Filipinos are tirelessly doing their jobs to make sure that we only give you and your companions the best.
So join us now!
Experience love, genuine caring, and unbeatable fun in the Philippines.
See you all in November!
Message from the IPAP Chairman
Alex Ferdinand S. Fider
Chairman, Intellectual Property Association of the Philippines, Inc. (IPAP), APAA Philippine Recognized Group
Dear Colleagues and Friends:
As Chairman of the Intellectual Property Association of the Philippines, the recognized group of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association in the country, I welcome all of you to this year’s 76th APAA Council Meeting in Manila.
This year’s business sessions offer a platform for discourse on emerging issues and thought-provoking topics that include generative AI, mental stability and EDI in IP practice, counterfeiting in metaverse, tattoos as artwork, green trademarks, patent examination and networking strategies in today’s practice.
Among the highlights of this year’s conference is the mock trial session. Two distinguished magistrates will decide on the patentability of something very ordinary, such as cooking chicken. Let us watch how the counsels present the witnesses and argue their cases.
I look forward to seeing you in Manila soon!
Message from the IPAP President
Rico V. Domingo, Esq.
President, Intellectual Property Association of the Philippines, Inc. (IPAP), APAA Philippines Recognized Group
Mabuhay!
As we prepare to host the Asian Patent Attorneys Association’s (APAA) 76th Council Meeting on 18 to 21 November 2024 in Manila, it is with immense pleasure and privilege that I extend a heartfelt invitation to all of you. The APAA meetings have long been a beacon of excellence in the field of intellectual property, as they foster the promotion and enhancement of intellectual property protection and innovation in the Asian region (including Australia and New Zealand) and around the globe.
Here in the Philippines, we are honored to showcase the rich tapestry of our nation’s culture, history and heritage. From the bustling streets of Manila to the pristine beaches of Palawan, every corner of our archipelago offers a distinctly unique and enviable experience that is worthy of sharing to the world.
The Philippines is not just a destination; it is an immersion into a world of diverse flavors, vibrant colors, and world-renowned hospitality. Whether you are exploring our bustling markets, savoring our mouthwatering cuisine, or basking in the warmth of our people’s smiles and world-class talent, each moment promises to be filled with wonder and discovery.
