Starting a business legal entity in the Philippines is an essential milestone for any entrepreneur. Whether you are a Filipino founder or a foreign investor, the primary goal is to register a corporation Philippines correctly to ensure protection. With the recent updates to the Revised Corporation Code, the workflow has become faster through online portals like eSPARC.
Phase 1: Securing Your Corporate Name
The beginning of the process is to select a unique business name. You must search for its availability via the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) online system. Make sure your chosen name does not clash with existing entities. Once cleared, you can reserve the name for a specific period by paying a small reservation fee.
Phase 2: Structuring Your Articles of Incorporation
Prior to register a corporation Philippines, you should define your share structure and leadership.
Incorporators: You need at least two but not more than 15 incorporators. Keep in mind a One Person Corporation (OPC) is now an option for individual entrepreneurs.
Capital Requirements: For general domestic corporations, there is no minimum paid-up capital required by the SEC, except for specialized industries like insurance.
Key Officers: You register a corporation philippines must select a President, a Corporate Secretary (who must be a Filipino citizen), and a Treasurer (based locally).
Step 3: Digital Filing via eSPARC
In 2026, the entirety of the registration process is processed online. Through the SEC system, you will submit your Articles of Incorporation, By-laws, and supplementary documents. The system enables the OneSEC processing pathway, which may issue a Digital Certificate of Incorporation in a single business day provided all information is accurate.
Phase 4: Post-SEC Requirements
Obtaining your SEC Certificate is the primary step. To legally operate and register register a corporation philippines a corporation Philippines completely, you must move forward with the following:
Local Permit: Obtain this from the specific district where your office is situated.
LGU License: Apply register a corporation philippines for this at the City Hall. This requires a lease contract and fire safety inspection.
Tax Compliance: register a corporation philippines Visit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to get your Tax Identification Number (TIN), apply for register a corporation philippines your books of accounts, and get authority to print official receipts.
Step 5: Government Social Agencies
Once your corporation starts hiring people, you need to register with social agencies such as the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. Compliance ensures your workers receive mandatory benefits and protects the company from legal issues.
Summary
Navigating the steps to register a corporation Philippines demands careful planning and accuracy. While the digital shift has simplified the task, many startups still prefer to consult professionals to prevent common mistakes. Following these guidelines, you can build a strong foundation for your venture in the vibrant Philippine economy.