DTI names new chiefs for investment arm, IP regulator

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has appointed new heads for its investment arm and intellectual property rights office, marking major leadership changes in its key attached agencies.

The National Development Co. (NDC) on Thursday said that Trade Secretary Cristina Roque had sworn in Saturnino Mejia as its new General Manager last Dec. 16.

Mejia succeeded Antonilo DC. Mauricio, whose resignation took effect in late November last year amid plans for a return to the private sector.

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Prior to being appointed as NDC head, Mejia had served as the assistant general manager of their special projects group for 25 years.

Mejia had overseen functions related to the development of new businesses in joint ventures via equity investments.

“With extensive experience in joint ventures, corporate finance, project evaluation and management, feasibility studies, public-private partnerships, and macroeconomic analysis, Mr. Mejia helped promote investments in areas such as renewable energy, industrial estate development and health and technology innovations,” the NDC said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) said that the DTI has designated Nathaniel Arevalo, its Deputy Director General for policy, legal and external relations, as officer in charge (OIC).

The appointment took effect under the DTI Department Order No. 25-02 following the end of term of former director general Rowel Barba last Dec. 31.

The IPOPHL said that Arevalo, as the designated OIC, was directed to manage all function, activities and operations of IPOPHL and promulgating the rules and regulations necessary for the effective implementation of the government body’s objectives, policies, plans, programs and projects. —Alden M. Monzon