Setting up a business structure in the Philippines is a major milestone for any business owner. Whether you are a local founder or a foreign investor, the initial goal is to register a corporation Philippines legally to ensure compliance. With the modern updates to the government systems, the procedure has become more streamlined through electronic systems like eSPARC.
Step 1: Securing Your Corporate Name
The beginning of the process is to select a unique corporate name. You must verify for its availability via the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) online system. Make sure your chosen name is not clash with existing entities. Once cleared, you can reserve the name for a specific period by paying a small reservation fee.
Phase 2: Defining Your Articles of Incorporation
Prior to register a corporation Philippines, you should define your share structure and leadership.
Founders: You need at least 2 but not more than 15 incorporators. Note that a One Person Corporation (OPC) is currently an option for solo entrepreneurs.
Authorized Capital: For most domestic corporations, there is hardly any minimum paid-up capital demanded by the SEC, unless regulated industries like banking.
Management: You must appoint a President, a Corporate Secretary (who is a local resident), and a Treasurer (resident in the Philippines).
Phase 3: Online Submission via eSPARC
In 2026, the entirety of the registration process is completed online. Through the eSPARC system, you will submit your Articles of Incorporation, By-laws, and other documents. The system enables the OneSEC processing track, which can issue a provisional approval in a single business days if all information is correct.
Step 4: Secondary Requirements
Getting your Certificate of register a corporation philippines Incorporation is only the beginning. To legally operate and register a corporation Philippines completely, you must proceed with the following:
Local Permit: Acquire this from the specific district where your office is situated.
Mayor’s or Business Permit: Apply for this at the Municipal Hall. This requires a lease contract and sanitary permit.
BIR Registration: Visit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to obtain your Tax Identification Number (TIN), apply for your books of accounts, and secure register a corporation philippines authority to print official receipts.
Phase 5: Government Contributions
Once your corporation starts employing staff, you are required to register with government institutions including the Social register a corporation philippines Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. This ensures your employees receive mandatory benefits and safeguards the register a corporation philippines company from penalties.
Final Thoughts
Completing the steps to register a corporation Philippines demands careful planning and accuracy. register a corporation philippines While the online shift has made things easier, many owners still prefer to consult legal experts to avoid common mistakes. Following these guidelines, you can build a strong foundation for your venture in the vibrant Philippine economy.