San Miguel Food and Beverages, Inc. (SMFB) and Gold Label Resources, Inc. (GLRI) have settled 12 trademark disputes through mediation, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (Ipophl) said.

In a statement, Ipophl said the compromise agreement was signed on Sept. 30, 2024, covering a range of disputes, including two under appeal, four inter-partes cases, and six lodged under the Mediation Outside Litigation (MOL) service.

The MOL, a service of the Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA), provides an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for parties to settle IP concerns before they escalate into litigation.

The dispute between SMFB and GLRI arose from GLRI's use of the "GOLD LABEL" trademark, which SMFB claimed was confusingly similar to its own registered trademark.

Instead of pursuing litigation, the parties opted for mediation, which facilitated a mutually agreeable solution.

IPOPHL Director General Rowel S. Barba praised the parties for their willingness to engage in mediation, emphasizing the benefits beyond dispute resolution. 

“It paves the way for healthier relationships, encourages open communication and ultimately contributes to a culture of collaboration,” Barba sad.

Deputy Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo echoed this sentiment, encouraging companies to avoid burning bridges with competitors who could potentially become partners. 

Ultimately, building alliances can enhance resilience and growth in an increasingly interconnected business environment,” he added.

BLA Officer-in-Charge Christine V. Pangilinan-Canlapan advocated for mediation as a first step in conflict resolution, noting that it fosters trust and harmony.

Agreements settled under the MOL are legally binding and enforceable.