Team members of the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP CIDS) and the Center for West Visayan Studies Local Resource Studies Network (CWVS LRSN) project, “Namit Gid!: A Multistakeholder Collaboration for Ilonggo Batchoy,” participated in the ASEAN Regional Geographical Indications (GI) Forum held on May 13–14, 2026, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Iloilo City.
The forum was organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the ASEAN.
Carrying the theme “SynerGI: Building Alliances for Sustainable GI Development,” the three-day forum highlighted the vital role of geographical indications in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening local economies, and promoting sustainable regional development. Cultural demonstrations featured Aklan Piña Weaving, Lake Sebu T’nalak Weaving, and Indonesian Coffee.
The team members who attended the forum were Dr. Mary Rose Rebueno, Mr. Sashah Dioso, Darlene Joy Calsado, and Aprille Danilly Guintibano. The event gathered representatives from ASEAN member countries, European Union partners, government agencies, academic institutions, and local producers from various regions, including Guimaras, Aklan, Bicol, and Lake Sebu. Senator Loren Legarda gave the keynote message.
The participation of the UP CIDS and CWVS LRSN Batchoy Project team underscored the growing efforts to safeguard and promote Iloilo’s batchoy through possible application for collective mark or geographical indication recognition. The batchoy project, in partnership with the Iloilo City Government, has facilitated multi-stakeholder conversations to advance initiatives that protect and promote one of Iloilo’s most iconic culinary traditions.
Written by Aprille Danilly A. Guintibano
Photos courtesy of Aprille Danilly A. Guintibano
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