Radio Mindanao Networks (RMN) has successfully established its exclusive ownership of the trademark “WARA WARA,” a widely recognized local term meaning waving, following a legal dispute.
The unauthorized utilization of the “WARA WARA” trademark by Richard Villaronte, former station manager of RMN Malaybalay, came to light in 2022, prompting RMN to take legal action. The issue gained further attention with the launch of the “WARA-WARA” program on an FM station in Pagadian City on January 8, 2023. The program, hosted by Alejandro Gesta, former station manager of DXPR RMN Pagadian, coincided with the registration of the “WARA-WARA” trademark.
The historical significance of “WARA WARA” within RMN posed a challenge for Villaronte’s attempt to claim exclusive ownership of the trademark. The term has been in use since 1952, serving as both an industry symbol and the name of a public service program across three RMN stations.
Initially introduced as a public service program by RMN Pagadian in 1980, “WARA WARA” aimed to facilitate the dissemination of vital public service announcements, particularly in areas with limited communication access. DXDR RMN Dipolog and DXMB RMN Malaybalay have consistently utilized the term since its inception.
The Kapisanan ng Mga Broadcaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) also recognizes “WARA WARA” as an RMN program. Villaronte, who was employed by RMN from 2013 to 2021, acknowledged the term’s intrinsic connection to his broadcasting work.
Villaronte’s subsequent attempt to introduce the “RADYO AGONG” trademark faced challenges, as the Intellectual Property Office did not grant approval.
With RMN’s enduring legacy and historical significance, the “WARA WARA” trademark remains integral to the network’s identity, reinforcing its exclusive rights to the term’s usage.
