Author: Mark Virgil Lofranco

One of the most frustrating moments for new business owners in the Philippines is this:You’ve registered your company—but the bank still won’t let you open a corporate account. From a legal and compliance standpoint, this situation is more common than you might think. Many entrepreneurs assume that once they secure registration with the Securities and…

Completing your company registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a major milestone. For many entrepreneurs, it feels like the final step in starting a business. But here is the legal reality:SEC registration is not the end—it is only the beginning. Many businesses make the critical mistake of assuming that once they receive…

Starting a business in the Philippines is an exciting milestone. Many entrepreneurs successfully complete their initial registrations—securing approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission, registering with the Bureau of Internal Revenue, and obtaining local permits. However, despite completing these steps, a large number of new businesses encounter compliance issues within their first year. So what…

Many entrepreneurs assume that once all documents are prepared and submitted, business registration should proceed smoothly. However, in practice, even “complete” applications can still experience delays. Whether you are registering with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Department of Trade and Industry, or the Bureau of Internal Revenue, delays can occur due to factors beyond…

Issuing official receipts and invoices is a fundamental requirement for any business operating in the Philippines. Beyond being a routine transaction, it is a legal obligation under Philippine tax laws. Failure to comply with invoicing rules can result in penalties, disallowance of expenses, and potential audits. As regulations continue to evolve, business owners must understand…

As your business grows, so do your legal responsibilities. What may have started as a small operation can quickly evolve into a complex organization with multiple stakeholders, increased capital, and expanded operations. For corporations in the Philippines, compliance with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is not a one-time requirement—it is an ongoing legal obligation.…

When registering a corporation in the Philippines, one of the most critical—but often misunderstood—components is the capital structure. Many entrepreneurs focus on completing forms quickly, overlooking the legal and financial implications of how their company’s capital is defined. However, errors in capital structure can lead to application delays, regulatory issues, and long-term business complications. Understanding…

One of the most common questions among entrepreneurs in the Philippines is:“When should I register my business with the SEC?” While some business owners delay registration until operations are stable, the legal reality is that timing plays a critical role in protecting your business, ensuring compliance, and unlocking opportunities. Registering your company with the Securities…

Family-owned businesses are a cornerstone of the Philippine economy. From small enterprises to large corporations, many successful companies begin as family ventures. However, while trust and shared values are strengths, family businesses still require proper legal structure and compliance to ensure long-term stability. Registering your business with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a…

Starting a business with partners can be an exciting and strategic decision. Combining resources, expertise, and capital often accelerates growth. However, from a legal standpoint, a multi-owner business must be properly structured and registered to avoid disputes, ensure compliance, and protect all parties involved. In the Philippines, registering a multi-owner business requires careful planning and…