The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (Ipophl) has partnered with the Pharmaceutical Security Institute (PSI) to combat the increase of counterfeit medicines and pharmaceutical products in the market.

In a statement on Monday, Ipophl said it signed an agreement with PSI last November 18. 'This synergy with PSI will help us better protect the value of IP that is meant for our country's economic gain and, of course, protect our consumers, especially where fake products involved can harm health and cost a life,' Ipophl Director General Rowel Barba said. The agreement will the provide the framework for the capacity building, awareness and exchange of information relevant to curb the sale, supply and consumption of counterfeit medicines and pharmaceutical products.