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19th CONGRESS 
Third Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO.  10794 
Introduced by Hon. Charisse Anne Hernandez 
Lone District of Calamba, Laguna 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippines recognizes the importance of protecting and promoting the 
authenticity, quality, and unique characteristics of traditional products deeply 
rooted in our nation's rich cultural heritage. Thus, it is imperative to safeguard the 
integrity of products originating from specific geographic regions within the 
Philippines, ensuring that they are produced according to methods and standards 
that contribute to their distinctiveness and reputation. 
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)is a form of geographical indication used 
to designate products that possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are 
essentially attributable to their geographical origin and production methods. The 
purpose of PDO is to protect the authenticity and integrity of traditional products 
by legally defining and regulating their origin, ensuring that only products 
produced in the specific geographical area according to specified traditional 
methods can bear the PDO designation. This protection helps consumers identify 
and trust the quality and authenticity of these products while also providing 
economic benefits to producers in the designated geographical regions. 
August 20, 2024
2:19 pm


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Establishing a PDO for products in the Philippines serves multiple crucial 
purposes. Firstly, it ensures the preservation of authenticity, safeguarding 
products' unique characteristics and reputations tied to specific geographic areas. 
This protects consumers from counterfeit goods while maintaining the integrity 
of traditional production methods. Secondly, PDOs contribute to economic 
development by promoting local industries, particularly in rural areas where these 
products originate, thus creating jobs and bolstering the overall economy.  
Additionally, PDOs aid in preserving the cultural heritage of the Philippines, as 
many traditional products are deeply intertwined with local traditions and history. 
By protecting these products, PDOs help maintain cultural identity and pride. 
Furthermore, PDO certification enhances market competitiveness, allowing 
Philippine products to command higher prices domestically and internationally, 
leading to increased export opportunities and revenue. Finally, PDOs play a vital 
role in tourism promotion by showcasing the unique qualities of Filipino products 
and their ties to specific regions, attracting visitors interested in experiencing the 
country's rich culture, traditions, and cuisine.  
Overall, establishing PDOs in the Philippines not only protects and promotes 
traditional products but also contributes significantly to economic development 
and tourism growth, fostering a sustainable and vibrant economy. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.    
CHARISSE ANNE C. HERNANDEZ 


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19th CONGRESS 
Third Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. 10794 
Introduced by Hon. Charisse Anne Hernandez 
Lone District of Calamba, Laguna 
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PHILIPPINE PROTECTED 
DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN TO PRESERVE THE AUTHENTICITY OF 
LOCAL PRODUCTS, PROMOTE REGIONAL HERITAGE, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. 
Short Title - This Act shall be known as the “Philippine 
Protected Designation of Origin” 
SECTION 2. 
Declaration of Policy – It is the declared the policy of the 
Philippines to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the protection and 
promotion of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) products, with the aim of 
preserving cultural heritage, promoting economic development, ensuring 
consumer protection, and fostering sustainable growth in local communities. 


 
 
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SECTION 3. 
Definition of Terms – For the purpose of this Act, the 
following terms shall be used under the definition provided hereof, to wit: 
 
a) Certification Body -   refers to the authority responsible for certifying PDO 
products and ensuring compliance with established standards. 
b) Geographical Area - refers to the geographic boundaries or parameters within 
which PDO-designated products must originate. 
c) Geographical Indication (GI) Defining the concept of geographical 
indication and its relationship to PDO, as GIs may encompass a broader range 
of products beyond those with strict PDO status. 
d) Labeling Requirements: Outline the labeling requirements for PDO products 
to indicate their geographical origin and certification status. 
e) Protected Designation of Origin (PDO): Clearly defining what constitutes a 
PDO and the criteria products must meet to qualify for PDO status. 
f) Quality Standards: Establishing the quality criteria and standards that PDO 
products must meet to maintain their designation. 
g) Traditional Production Methods: Describing the traditional techniques, 
processes, or practices that must be used in the production of PDO-designated 
products. 
 
SECTION 4.  
Creation and Mandate of the Philippine Protected 
Designated Origin Office – There is hereby created a Philippine Protected 
Designation Office under the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, 
hereinafter referred to as the Office. The PPDO Office shall be responsible for 
protecting, promoting, and regulating products with Protected Designation of 
Origin (PDO) status.  
The following are the duties and functions of the Office: 
1) PDO Certification: Administer the certification process for products, and 
traditional methods seeking PDO status, including verifying their 
adherence to specified geographical and quality standards. 
2) Regulatory: Regulate PDO products by ensuring compliance with 
production methods, quality standards, and labeling requirements. 
3) Registration and Database Management: Maintain a comprehensive 
registry of PDO-designated products, producers, and geographical areas, 


 
 
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as well as manage databases for tracking certifications, renewals, and 
compliance records. 
4) Consumer Protection: Educate consumers about the significance of PDO 
products, providing guidance on how to identify authentic PDO goods, and 
addressing consumer complaints or concerns related to PDO labeling or 
quality. 
5) Producers Support and Development: Provide support and guidance to 
PDO producers through technical assistance, training programs, and access 
to resources to help them maintain and improve product quality and 
compliance. 
6) Market Promotion: Promote PDO products domestically and 
internationally through marketing campaigns, trade shows, and 
promotional events to enhance their visibility, demand, and market value. 
7) Intellectual Property Protection: Protect the intellectual property rights 
associated with PDO products, including prosecuting infringements, 
resolving disputes, and collaborating with relevant authorities on legal and 
enforcement matters. 
8) Research and Development: Conduct research on PDO products, 
production methods, and market trends to inform policy decisions, support 
innovation, and enhance the competitiveness of PDO industries. 
9) Collaboration and Coordination: Collaborate with government agencies, 
industry associations, research institutions, and other stakeholders to 
coordinate efforts, share information, and leverage resources for the benefit 
of PDO producers and consumers. 
10) 
Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitor the implementation and 
impact of PDO regulations, conduct periodic assessments of PDO products 
and producers, and evaluate the effectiveness of PDO protection measures 
to inform policy adjustments and improvements. 
SECTION 5.  
Implementing Rules and Regulations. – The National 
Historical Commission of the Philippines in coordination and in consultation with 
the Department of Tourism, Intellectual Property Office, Department of Trade 
and Industry, and local government units, shall formulate, within ninety (90) days 
upon the effectivity of this Act, the implementing rules and regulations  
SECTION 6.  
Appropriations. - The amount necessary to carry out the 
provisions of this Act shall be included in the budget of concerned government 


 
 
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agencies in the General Appropriations Act of the year following its enactment 
into law and thereafter. 
SECTION 7.  
Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, other provisions not affected thereby shall continue 
to be in full force and effect. 
SECTION 8.  
Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) 
days following its complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two 
(2) newspaper of general circulation. 
 
 
Approved,