Conflict between Indecopi and comedians reveals tensions in intellectual property in Peru.

The recent conflict between the National Institute for the Defense of Competition and the Protection of Intellectual Property (Indecopi) and the comedians Jorge Luna and Ricardo Mendoza has escalated to unexpected levels, generating an intense debate about transparency and ethics in trademark registration in Peru. The controversy began when the comedians reported, during a broadcast of their show "We Just Want to Talk," that they had been victims of an attempted extortion by Indecopi officials, who allegedly requested a payment of 20,000 soles to facilitate the registration of the trademark "Hablando Huevadas." Indecopi, for its part, has firmly responded to these accusations, categorically denying any type of corruption and announcing that it will take legal action against the comedians. In an official statement, the entity emphasized that the trademark registration process is conducted under technical criteria and that any contrary claims lack foundation. "Indecopi vigorously rejects the statements made in a program that is broadcast in the digital environment, without the presentation of any evidence," the document states. This case has generated significant uproar on social media and in the media, where supporters of Luna and Mendoza express their backing for the comedians, while others question Indecopi's integrity. A debate has emerged regarding the public perception of state institutions and their ability to act fairly and transparently. The controversy not only affects the comedians' image but also calls into question the credibility of an entity responsible for regulating and protecting intellectual property in the country. Indecopi's refusal to register the trademark "Hablando Huevadas" is not an isolated incident, as it has been rejected on five previous occasions. The reasons cited by the entity are that the name is deemed inappropriate and contrary to good customs, which has angered the comedians, who believe this decision has caused them considerable economic harm by limiting their ability to market products related to their image. Mendoza, in his statements, highlighted the frustration he feels over the situation, noting that the lack of registration is also a reflection of the ineptitude of the officials. "I think they don't give us the registration because they're incompetent. It's just that their morals are forgotten if you pay (the bribe)," he mentioned, shedding light on what he considers a corrupt system that favors those willing to "pay." The producer and partner of the comedians, Cathy Sáenz, also joined the accusations, stating that they have evidence that could identify the officials involved in these alleged acts of corruption. "I know you have proof that they asked for money; we know who and for whom the distribution would go," she asserted, adding a new level of seriousness to the accusations. Under social and media pressure, Indecopi has made it clear that defending its institutional integrity is paramount. "In light of the seriousness of the accusations made, the institution will analyze and initiate the appropriate legal actions to safeguard institutional integrity and that of public servants," reiterates the statement, reflecting the firm stance the entity has decided to adopt in response to what they consider an unfounded attack. This episode highlights the fragility of the relationships between artists and government entities, especially when it comes to administrative processes that can directly affect the careers and livelihoods of those involved. As this controversy unfolds, many are wondering what the outcome will be and whether evidence will be presented to support the allegations of corruption. The "Hablando Huevadas" case has become a focal point in the debate over corruption and ethics in the public sector, underscoring the need to strengthen transparency and accountability mechanisms in all institutions in the country. Public pressure and media scrutiny could be determining factors for the future of both the comedians and Indecopi, in a scenario where truth and justice hang in the balance. Expectations for the resolution of this situation remain high, and both parties are expected to present their arguments clearly in the coming days.