Starting a business entity in the Philippines is a major milestone for any investor. 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.
Phase 1: Securing Your Corporate Name
The beginning of the process is to select a unique business name. You must verify 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 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 currently an option for solo entrepreneurs.
Authorized Capital: For most domestic corporations, there is hardly any minimum paid-up capital demanded by the SEC, except for specialized industries like insurance.
Key Officers: You must select a register a corporation philippines President, a Corporate Secretary (who is a local resident), and a Treasurer (resident in the Philippines).
Step 3: register a corporation philippines Digital Filing via eSPARC
In 2026, the entirety of register a corporation philippines the registration process is processed online. Through the eSPARC 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
Receiving your SEC Certificate is the primary step. To legally operate and register a corporation Philippines completely, you must move forward with the following:
Local Permit: Obtain 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), register a corporation philippines PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. This ensures your employees receive mandatory benefits and safeguards the company from penalties.
Final Thoughts
Completing 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 register a corporation philippines foundation for your enterprise in the vibrant Philippine economy.