Matthew works in a car manufacturing company owned by John. Matthew is quite innovative and loves

to tinker with things. With the materials and parts of the car, he was able to invent a gas-saving device for

cars. Mark, a co-worker, saw how Matthew created the device and likewise, came up with a similar gadget,

also using scrap materials and spare parts of the company. Thereafter, Mark filed an application for

registration of his device with the Bureau of Patents. Eighteen (18) months later, Matthew filed his

application for the registration of his device with the Bureau of Patents.

a. Is the gas-saving device patentable? Explain.

b. Suppose John heard of the inventions of his employees and also laid claim to the patents. Asserting

that Matthew and Mark were using his materials and company time in making the devices, will John's

claim prevail over those of his employees? Explain.