Establishing a business structure in the Philippines is a major milestone for any business owner. Whether you are a local founder or a international investor, the first goal is to register a corporation Philippines properly to ensure compliance. With the modern updates to the government systems, the procedure has become more streamlined through electronic systems like eSPARC.
Phase 1: Choosing Your Corporate Name
The first step is to verify a unique business name. You must search for its availability through the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) eSPARC portal. Make sure your chosen name does not resemble existing entities. Once cleared, you can hold the name for a specific period by paying a small reservation fee.
Step 2: Structuring Your Corporate Structure
When you register a corporation Philippines, you need to define your share structure and leadership.
Founders: You need at least 2 but not more than fifteen directors. Note that a One Person Corporation (OPC) is also 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 select 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. register a corporation philippines The system enables the OneSEC processing track, which may issue a Digital Certificate of Incorporation in a single business days provided all information is register a corporation philippines correct.
Phase 4: Post-SEC Requirements
Getting your Certificate of Incorporation is only the beginning. To legally operate and register a corporation philippines register a corporation Philippines completely, you must move register a corporation philippines forward 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.
Tax Compliance: Visit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to obtain your Tax Identification Number (TIN), apply for your books of accounts, and secure authority to print official receipts.
Phase 5: Government Contributions
Once your corporation starts employing people, you are required to register with government institutions including the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. This ensures your employees receive legal benefits and safeguards the entity from penalties.
Final Thoughts
Completing the process to register a corporation Philippines requires patience and accuracy. While the online transition has made things register a corporation philippines easier, many owners still prefer to hire legal experts to avoid delays. Following these steps, you can establish a solid foundation for your business in the growing Philippine economy.