OMB threatens local software pirates

MANILA, Philippines – The battle of the Optical Media Board (OMB) against local computer software pirates in on.

The OMB threatened on Friday local companies who refuse on-the-spot inspections of the regulatory board that they would face legal sanctions if they failed to prove that they are using licensed software.

Earlier, OMB eyed the South Metro Business in Alabang, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Cavite and Laguna, and seized the unlicensed software found in the areas.

According to OMB’s report, there were several firms which refused to be inspected. The board did not release the company names of those who refused the inspection.

OMB said under the Optical Media Act, refusal of OMB’s inspection orders was against the law and “the uncooperative persons or entities would be facing sanctions” adding that they would be having court order against the companies.

“The businesses that refuse inspection will have to report to the OMB headquarters and present an inventory of all the software they are currently using, or they will face corresponding legal charges,” OMB warned.

Under the Intellectual Property (IP) Code of the Philippines, the use and sale of pirated and unlicensed software is a violation which carries a fine of P1.5 million and imprisonment of not more than nine years.

Meantime, the OMB said they would be conducting more enforcement operations this month in pursuance of its mission to enforce IP laws, and abolish software piracy in the Philippines.

Carissa Caraig, contributor