Company Set-Up
The Philippines is a strong choice for entrepreneurs and investors.
It offers a skilled workforce, a strategic location in Southeast Asia, and a growing market of consumers-making it a great base for building and expanding a business. To operate legally, companies must register with the proper Philippine government agencies. Below are the common business setups available to both local and foreign investors.
Business Options for Foreign Investors in the Philippines
Foreign-owned businesses are allowed in the Philippines, but some industries have restrictions
under the Foreign Investment Negative List (FINL). These restricted areas may be partly or fully
reserved for Filipino citizens.
If your target industry is open to foreign investment, you can choose from several legal
structures.
Business Entities You Can Register (Local or Foreign)
1) Domestic Corporation (Subsidiary if with Foreign Ownership)
A Domestic Corporation is one of the most common ways to register a business in the
Philippines. It has a legal identity separate from its shareholders, which means the company can
own assets, sign contracts, and continue operating even if ownership changes.
Key points:
. Requires at least two incorporators (legal age and must subscribe to at least one share).
. Under the Revised Corporation Code (effective February 23, 2019), corporations no longer
need five incorporators; fewer are allowed, and even organizations can become
incorporators in some cases.
. Registration is done through the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission).
Common ownership structures include:
. Fully Filipino-owned
. Joint Filipino-Foreign ownership (often 60/40 depending on industry rules)
. Partly to fully foreign owned (subject to FINL and other regulations)
One Person Corporation (OPC) in the Philippines
A One Person Corporation (OPC) is a business structure that lets one individual form a
corporation without needing partners or multiple incorporators. It's designed for solo
entrepreneurs who want the benefits of a corporation especially limited liability while keeping
ownership and decision-making simple
Start Your Philippine Business Journey Today
The Philippines is open, ready, and eager to welcome your business. Whether you are a foreign entrepreneur taking your first step into the Southeast Asian market, a multinational corporation expanding your regional footprint, or a local business owner ready to formalize and scale your enterprise — we are here to make it happen.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation and let our team of experts guide you through every step of establishing your business in the Philippines — safely, legally, and with complete confidence.