Highlighting his exceptional professionalism and leadership across various sectors, Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer Roque has formally endorsed the reappointment of Atty. Rowel Barba as director-general of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL).

Barba’s tenure will end on 31 December, 2024, having served IPOPHL for four years.

In a memorandum sent to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. dated 19 November, secured by DAILY TRIBUNE over the weekend, Roque emphasized Barba’s commendable leadership which led the agency to new heights with his "BRIGHT Agenda."

This includes building collaboration and partnerships, raising the bar for customer service, integrating IP education and awareness into society, going back to basics, highlighting human capital, and transforming IPOPHL into a fully digitalized agency.

Barba, who holds a law degree from the University of the Philippines and a Certificate in Business Economics, has extensive experience spanning both the public and private sectors.

He previously held key roles as Undersecretary at the Department of Trade and Industry and Vice President for Legal Affairs at RFM Corporation.

"Given his extensive qualifications, leadership, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the IP regime in the Philippines, the above-signed firmly believes that he is highly qualified for reappointment as Director General of IPOPHL. His continued leadership will guarantee the success of key legislative and institutional reforms, contributing to a robust intellectual property system in the Philippines," Roque said.

Barba entered the public service when he was appointed as DTI Undersecretary from September 2016 to February 2020.

During this time, he managed various units and attached agencies under DTI and served as Chief of Staff to then-Secretary Ramon Lopez.

In the private sector, aside from RFM, Barba held leadership positions such as Chief Legal Officer of JAKA Investment Corp. (1997-2007).

He was also a Junior Associate of Ponce Enrile Cayetano Reyes and Manalastas Law Offices (1989 - 1992).

Aside from the DTI, the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. earlier endorsed Barba’s extension of tenure at the agency.