Bohol seeks GI protection for Ubi Kinampay, a PH heritage crop

MANDAUE CITY, Cebu – The Bohol Provincial Government has taken a significant step toward protecting Ubi Kinampay, one of the province’s most prized agricultural products.

Through the Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (BEDIPO), the provincial government recently filed an application for Geographical Indication (GI) registration with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL).

The GI application seeks to formally recognize the unique qualities, reputation, and cultural heritage of Bohol’s Ubi Kinampay, which are intrinsically linked to the province’s geography, soil, climate, and traditional farming practices.

READ: Bohol’s Asin Tibuok in Unesco list of Intangible Cultural Heritage

“GI protection could help shield the Bohol Ubi Kinampay from false origin claims and unauthorized use of the name, in the end strengthening consumer trust and market value. It can also help sustain local livelihoods and preserve traditional and organic farming practices that give the Bohol-grown variety its distinct aroma, texture and color amid growing concerns over the increased use of synthetic fertilizers,” IPOPHL said in an advisory.

IPOPHL Director General Teodoro Pascua said, “The world is now in the middle of a ‘purple gold rush,’ and GI protection can help the Philippines stake its claim in the growing global demand by strengthening its market identity and position.”

READ: Bohol’s Asin Tibuok now an IPOPHL registered geographical indication

“As ube becomes more global, we must make sure the roots of varieties from the country are not lost. GI protection helps ensure that the true heart of the Bohol Ubi Kinampay—its soil, story and people—remain Boholano and Filipino,” he added.

Successful registration

This was already the second time for Bohol to apply for GI protection, following the successful registration of Alburquerque town’s famed– Asin Tibuok.

“These efforts reflect Bohol’s commitment to sustaining a product that has long been part of the province’s identity and economy,” the provincial government said in an advisory.

The Bohol Ubi Kinampay, widely recognized as the “Queen of Philippine Yams,” is prized for its distinct flavor, aroma, texture, and vibrant color and has earned recognition in local and international culinary markets.

“Various initiatives have been implemented to improve production, support farmers, promote research and development, and preserve the cultural heritage associated with the crop,” read part of the province’s advisory.

Protected GIs

A GI registration is expected to increase the market value of the crop, strengthen consumer confidence, and generate greater economic opportunities for local farmers and producers.

As part of the registration process, IPOPHL will assess the applicant’s product description, geographic production area, production methods, quality control measures, standards and labeling requirements, and evidence demonstrating the link between Ubi Kinampay’s distinct qualities, characteristics, and reputation and Bohol’s natural environment and traditional know-how.

READ: Guimaras-grown mangoes exported to Europe, HK

“The application comes as IPOPHL actively promotes origin-based branding. Over the years, it has been working closely with local government units, producers and community groups to advance GI awareness.”

In 2023, IPOPHL conducted seminar-workshops for producers of Ubi Kinampay and Alburquerque’s Asin Tibuok to enhance their understanding of the geographical indication (GI) registration process and the benefits of GI protection in preserving cultural heritage while creating economic opportunities.

The Philippines currently has four registered geographical indications: Guimaras Mangoes, Aklan Piña, Alburquerque Asin Tibuok, and Tau Sebu T’nalak.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

Read Next

Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards.