Geographical Indications (GIs), also known as Geographic Origin Protection (GOP), are those "indications which identify a product as originating in the territory of a Member, or a region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the product is essentially attributable to its geographical origin".

In view of the far­-reaching benefits of GI registration and significant cultural and economic impacts, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (ICCPI) together with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) recently held the "Gran gala dei Salumi e Formaggi" last Wednesday, November 22" from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Chantara, Dusit Thani Manila. This event is a project under the EU­Philippines Business Network and co­-funded by the European Union.

With the importance and benefits of having GOP products laid out, Atty. Irma Vera Morcillo, Division Chief, TME Division 1, Bureau of Trademarks and Field Operations of Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPO­PHL), concluded the discussion by underlining the importance of GIs for the agricultural and tourism sectors in the Philippines.

As the main highlight of this gourmet night, multiple renowned Italian delicacies were showcased and highlighted as Mr. Paolo Nesi, an awarded Italian sommelier, presented pairings of different types ofItalian GOP cheeses and cold cuts with fine wines. Guests were able to discover the secrets, origin, and history of these Italian selections. The evening was then capped off with Tartufo Classico ­- an Italian ice cream dessert.

Undeniably, the event raised awareness of the importance of Geographical Indications and its lasting beneficial impacts as well as guiding the guests through a wonderful gourmet journey of discovering Italian GOP cheeses and cold cuts all paired with fine wines.

This event was made possible through the effort and support of our sponsors, Metromart Technologies Inc., and Italfood Distribution Inc., as well as Dusit Thani Manila as our venue partner, and Primer Media
and COOK Magazine as our media partners. Expect more of these advocacy events and a whole lot more from the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines together with its partners for the coming year.

This article was originally published on January 24, 2018 on Cook (print)