OPLE WE ALREADY KNOW THE MESSAGE; BUT THE METHOD OF DELIVERING THE MESSAGE IS QUESTIONABLE

Press Release No. 015-03
12 January 2002

OPLE WE ALREADY KNOW THE MESSAGE; BUT THE METHOD OF DELIVERING THE MESSAGE IS QUESTIONABLE

Reacting to the actions of a U.S. trade official who was in Manila recently and who questioned the sincerity of the Philippine government in enforcing intellectual property rights (IPR) laws, Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas F. Ople today said that the Philippines already has a clear idea of the feelings of the United States on the issue of IPR and that the actions and statements of the U.S. official are regrettable and uncalled for.

“There is no need to question our sincerity and determination to address IPR issues. We are exerting every effort to protect intellectual property rights. Many of our efforts have paid off and we have had some stunning victories in our war against these pirates. But we cannot turn things around overnight,” Secretary Ople said.

On Friday (10 Jan 02), a US commerce official on criticized the Philippine government for failing to enforce intellectual property laws, which he said cost US firms about 116 million dollars in lost revenue last year.

“The melodramatic actions of this U.S. official, and his statement questioning our efforts are regrettable and totally uncalled for. He made purchases in Manila that could easily be made in midtown Manhattan or downtown Los Angeles,” Secretary Ople added.

“Rather than acknowledge the efforts and gains that the Philippine government have made in protecting IPRs, this official chose to belittle these efforts and preferred to engage in theatrics. His actions are highly questionable and are actions that we would not expect from a friendly country, particularly since there are proper diplomatic and official venues and fora where we can discuss these matters,” Secretary Ople said.

Responding to the U.S. official’s comment that there must be more convictions on IPR violations, Secretary Ople said: “Regardless of what this official said or did, the Philippines will continue to uphold the rule of law and observe due process in enforcing its laws.” END.