The Philippines ranks 36th in Global IP Index

The 2026 International IP Index places the Philippines at 36th out of 55 economies, with a score of 40.64 percent, unhinged since last year. Compiled by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC), the index measures how well countries protect intellectual property across 53 indicators, from patent laws to enforcement and treaty participation. Across Asia, the gap is wide. Japan scores 90.81 percent and South Korea 85.94 percent, while Singapore reaches 80.11 percent. Even Malaysia, at 51.85 percent, is regarded as having stronger innovation performance. The Philippines, by contrast, sits closer to Vietnam (38.91 percent) but better off than Thailand (36.09%) and Indonesia (29.17 percent), placing it firmly in the region’s middle tier. What does this middle tier imply though? Should we be concerned? A strong intellectual property (IP) environment is the essential engine that powers breakthroughs across every sector of the global economy. When creators and innovators can rely on stable and predictable rules, they are emboldened to invest in life-changing technologies and build high-value industries that raise living standards and expand economic opportunities. Effective IP systems also underpin trusted trade relationships, giving businesses the confidence to reach new markets and partner across borders, which is vital for overall economic development and job creation. The Philippines' ranking reflects an enforcement environment that, while administratively proactive, still struggles with high levels of physical and online piracy and lacks a legislative framework with truly deterrent penalties. To its credit, the government is making strides through the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), which has expanded its enforcement powers and recently created its first register of "Well-Known Marks" to provide brand owners with greater legal certainty. Additionally, the Internet Transactions Act (ITA) is now operational to clarify rights and responsibilities in e-commerce. Moving forward, however, the country must bridge the gap between its innovative administrative initiatives and its statutory framework to provide the legal certainty required for high-value investment.