Part 1. General Statement

St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. (SMC) is committed to fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and academic excellence while ensuring the protection of intellectual property (IP) rights for faculty, students, researchers, and staff. This policy serves as a framework to govern the ownership, use, and commercialization of intellectual property generated within the institution, whether in the form of research outputs, scholarly works, creative expressions, inventions, or technological innovations. SMC recognizes the contributions of its academic community and seeks to provide an environment that supports knowledge creation while upholding ethical and legal standards. The institution upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the recognition and distribution of IP rights, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed of their responsibilities and entitlements. Any intellectual property developed using SMC resources, facilities, or funding shall be subject to institutional review, and its ownership and commercialization shall be managed in accordance with relevant laws and institutional policies. Additionally, the college encourages collaborative research and industry partnerships while safeguarding the rights and interests of all parties involved. This policy aims to balance the protection of intellectual property with the need for academic freedom, open access to knowledge, and the dissemination of research for the greater benefit of society.

Part 2. Guiding Principles

The Intellectual Property (IP) Policy of St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. (SMC) is guided by principles that align with the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (RA 8293) and the standards set by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL). These principles ensure the protection, management, and utilization of intellectual property within the institution while promoting innovation, creativity, and ethical responsibility.

1. 1. 1. Ownership of Intellectual Property

• • • Intellectual property created by faculty, students, researchers, and staff using institutional resources, funding, or facilities shall be co-owned by the creator(s) and SMC, unless otherwise stipulated in a written agreement.
    • Any work created independently without substantial use of the institution’s resources shall remain the sole property of the creator(s).
    • Collaborative works with external organizations shall follow contractual agreements defining IP ownership and usage rights.

1. 1. 1. Rights and Responsibilities of Creators

• • • Faculty, students, and staff shall have the right to be recognized as the rightful creators of their intellectual property.
    • Creators must disclose any IP developed under institutional support to the designated IP office or committee for proper documentation and protection.
    • IP creators are responsible for ensuring that their works do not infringe on existing intellectual property rights of others.

1. 1. 1. Use of Institutional Resources and Support

• • • SMC provides an environment that fosters research and innovation, offering resources such as funding, research facilities, and academic mentorship.
    • Any intellectual property developed using substantial institutional support shall be subject to institutional IP policies regarding ownership and commercialization.
    • Researchers and students must acknowledge the institution’s contribution in any published or commercialized work derived from institutional resources.

1. 1. 1. Commercialization and Benefit Sharing

• • • Intellectual property with commercial potential shall be subject to institutional review for possible technology transfer, licensing, or commercialization.
    • Revenue generated from commercialized IP shall be distributed equitably among the creator(s), the institution, and relevant stakeholders as per institutional agreements and IPOPHL guidelines.
    • Any agreement related to commercialization shall be formalized through contracts ensuring fair distribution of benefits and compliance with legal requirements.

1. 1. 1. Protection and Registration of Intellectual Property

• • • SMC encourages the registration and protection of intellectual property through IPOPHL and other relevant agencies.
    • The institution may assist in securing patents, trademarks, copyrights, or other forms of IP protection as deemed necessary.
    • All registered IP shall be cataloged and monitored to prevent unauthorized use or infringement.

1. 1. 1. Academic Freedom and Open Access

• • • While intellectual property rights are upheld, SMC values academic freedom and supports open access to knowledge in alignment with ethical and educational goals.
    • The institution encourages responsible sharing of research findings for the benefit of the academic community and society.
    • In cases where confidentiality is required, proper agreements shall be established to protect sensitive information.

1. 1. 1. Ethical Considerations and Compliance

• • • All stakeholders must adhere to ethical research practices, ensuring that intellectual property is developed with integrity and respect for others’ rights.
    • The institution prohibits plagiarism, unauthorized use of copyrighted materials, and unethical exploitation of intellectual property.
    • Violations of the IP policy shall be subject to institutional disciplinary procedures and legal actions as prescribed by IPOPHL and RA 8293.

1. 1. 1. Dispute Resolution and Conflict Management

• • • Any dispute regarding IP ownership, commercialization, or ethical concerns shall be addressed through the institution’s designated IP committee or legal office.
    • Mediation and arbitration mechanisms shall be provided to resolve conflicts fairly and efficiently.
    • SMC shall ensure transparency and due process in all matters concerning intellectual property disputes.

1. 1. 1. Collaboration and Industry Engagement

• • • The institution supports partnerships with industries, government agencies, and international organizations for knowledge transfer and technological advancement.
    • Any IP-related agreements with external partners shall undergo institutional review to safeguard the interests of both the creators and the institution.
    • Collaborations shall align with national and international IP laws and ethical standards.

1. 1. 1. Policy Implementation and Review

• • • The IP policy shall be reviewed periodically to align with changes in national and global IP regulations.
    • The institution shall establish an IP office or designate a committee to oversee the implementation, education, and enforcement of the policy.
    • Continuous capacity-building initiatives shall be conducted to raise awareness and educate stakeholders on intellectual property rights and responsibilities.

This Intellectual Property Policy and Guidelines serve as a foundation for innovation, knowledge dissemination, and responsible IP management at St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc., ensuring compliance with IPOPHL regulations while fostering a dynamic academic and research environment.