Question & AnswerQ&A (OFFICE ORDER NO. 13 - 171)
These rules shall be known as the "Rules on Copyright Registration and Deposit."
The author or creator of the work, his heirs, or assignee may apply, either personally or through a duly authorized representative. Non-resident applicants may be represented by a duly authorized resident agent.
The requirements include the duly accomplished registration and deposit form (RDF) filed in duplicate, affidavit evidencing copyright ownership or manner of acquisition, proof of identity, documents evidencing authority to represent if applicable, official receipt of filing fee, and the work to be deposited.
IPSOs serve as receiving offices for registration and deposit of copyrighted works, provide technical and advisory services, and ensure the completeness and correctness of application documents before forwarding to IPOPHL.
Works are classified into classes A to I (e.g., books, periodicals, dramatic compositions, music, artworks) and may be deposited as two original copies or an electronic copy submitted online or in storage medium depending on the class.
There is a basic fee which includes fund-in-trust for the National Library of the Philippines (NLP) plus administrative expenses. Additional courier fees are charged for sending deposited works and certificates. Specific amounts are stated for Manila, regions, and bulk submissions.
Cancellation may be ordered upon a final court decision, final order of the IPOPHL Bureau of Legal Affairs in infringement cases, registration of copyrights transfers or inheritance, or upon expiration of the copyright term.
The certificate shall be released after five (5) working days from filing of the Registration and Deposit Form (RDF).
Corrections are allowed only if substantial, requiring a written request and payment of a fee equivalent to the application fee. Otherwise, the first entry is deemed final and reflected in the certificate.
The National Library of the Philippines (NLP) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) jointly administer the copyright registration database.