Last week, David Sides Fuentes, a resident of Mérida, Yucatán, filed a request with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) to register the trademark and logo of “El Pato Merlín. El pato de la suerte” for a 10-year period. The application, recorded under file number 3643308, was submitted on June 17, 2026.

Sides Fuentes is not the original owner of the beloved “Pato Merlín,” yet his trademark design features a duck wearing a green jersey adorned with an image of Quetzalcoatl—reminiscent of the Mexican National Soccer Team’s uniform—and the Aztec Calendar in the background. The trademark aims to cover a wide range of uses, including advertising for political campaigns, business incubators, and management services for artists and athletes.

The move has stirred strong reactions from the original owners of the duck, a hardworking family who have become viral sensations on social media for their dedication and daily efforts to make a living. Karla, the family’s spokesperson, announced plans to register the duck as their own trademark to protect their rights.

On Monday, June 22, 2026, during the morning press conference at Palacio Nacional, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the issue directly. She condemned the attempt to register the duck by someone outside the family as “an abuse” and pledged government support to help the family secure the trademark through official channels.

“It’s not fair that someone else wanted to register the duck as a brand. Imagine, what an abuse!” Sheinbaum said, emphasizing her administration’s commitment to assist the family in improving their quality of life.

This case highlights the complexities of intellectual property rights in Mexico, especially when it involves cultural symbols and community livelihoods. The government’s active role in supporting the original owners reflects a broader commitment to social justice and protecting grassroots initiatives from exploitation. For migrants and diverse communities navigating Mexico’s legal landscape, this story underscores the importance of accessible legal protections and state intervention to uphold fairness.