Manila: The National Bureau of Investigation – Intellectual Property Rights Division (NBI-IPRD) has seized more than PHP344 million worth of fake luxury goods and counterfeit software in separate operations in Pasay, Manila, and Pasig, the agency announced Tuesday. The operations highlight ongoing efforts to crack down on intellectual property rights violations in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the NBI executed search warrants on October 28 against four stalls at Baclaran LRT Shopping Mall and three stalls at Baclaran Terminal 1 Building, both located in Pasay City, as well as an establishment in Manila. These actions led to the confiscation of 3,063 pieces of fake Louis Vuitton products, valued at PHP 342.668 million.

In a separate operation, NBI-IPRD operatives targeted a company in Pasig City, where they confiscated four laptops containing counterfeit engineering software valued at approximately PHP 1.43 million. This particular operation was launched following a complaint from the legitimate software owners.

The NBI has indicated that charges will be filed against the owners of the establishments for violating Republic Act No. 8293, which pertains to trademark infringement. The agency emphasized its commitment to protecting the interests of legitimate business owners and investors, stating that these operations aim to boost foreign investor confidence and support the growth of legitimate businesses.

The NBI also issued a warning to the public, urging individuals not to support counterfeit products due to their detrimental impact on the economy.