Can a foreign corporation not engaged in business in the Philippines sue for trademark infringement?
A foreign national or juridical person can bring a civil or administrative action for infringement even if they do not engage in business in the Philippines. They must meet certain requirements under the Act, but they do not need a license to do business in the country to file suit. Section 160 Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines explicitly allows these entities to pursue actions for opposition, cancellation, and unfair competition. this protects international brands from local infringement regardless of their physical presence in the territory,. “SEC. 160. Right of Foreign Corporation to Sue in Trademark or Service Mark Enforcement Action. – Any foreign national or juridical person… may bring a civil or administrative action… whether or not it is licensed” January 7, 2026About Nicolas and De Vega Law Offices
Nicolas and De Vega Law Offices is a full-service law firm in the Philippines. You may visit us at the 16th Flr., Suite 1607 AIC Burgundy Empire Tower, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, 1605 Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. You may also call us at +632 84706126, +632 84706130, +632 84016392 or e-mail us at [email protected]. Visit our website https://ndvlaw.com/.
