Legal Insights
Plain-language guides and case briefs on Philippine law — researched from the firm's law library of 184,000+ statutes, Supreme Court decisions, and agency issuances, and written so non-lawyers can understand and act on them.
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Cross-Border E-Commerce Philippines: Tax and Consumer Rules for Foreign Sellers
Selling online into the Philippines from abroad? Learn how VAT on digital services, e-marketplace rules, and SEC licensing apply to cross-border sellers.
BSP Circular 1108 VASP Guidelines: Licensing, Capital, and Compliance Rules
BSP Circular 1108 sets the VASP guidelines in the Philippines, covering licensing, capital, wallet security, and reporting duties for virtual asset firms.
Digital Bank Licensing in the Philippines: BSP Circulars 1105 and 1154
How BSP Circular 1105 and Circular 1154 govern digital bank licensing in the Philippines, from the P1.0 billion capital rule to the application process.
Automotive Manufacturing in the Philippines: Licensing and Incentives
Automotive manufacturing in the Philippines requires BOI or PEZA registration, a certificate of registration, and compliance with tax and customs rules to enjoy incentives.
Philippine Franchise International Expansion: Master Franchise and Export Rules
Philippine franchise international expansion involves a master franchise agreement, IP licensing rules, and BSP foreign exchange registration for inbound royalties.
IP Licensing Agreement Philippines: How to Draft One That Holds Up
An IP licensing agreement in the Philippines must be registered with the IPO if it is a technology transfer arrangement. Here is how the rules work.
Key Clauses in a Philippine Franchise Agreement: What to Review Before Signing
Understand the key clauses in a Philippine franchise agreement, from IP licensing to dispute resolution, and the laws that govern them.
Restaurant Permit Requirements Philippines: A Step-by-Step Licensing Guide
Restaurant permit requirements in the Philippines start with the LGU business permit, then FDA and fire clearances. Here is the step-by-step licensing path.
Foreign Contractor Construction Philippines: Rules on Doing Construction Work
A foreign contractor in the Philippines must comply with corporation, licensing, and procurement rules before undertaking construction projects. Here is how it works.
Fintech Regulation in the Philippines: BSP Rules and Licensing
Fintech regulation in the Philippines is shaped by BSP rules, the E-Commerce Act, and the Data Privacy Act. Learn the key legal requirements here.
Crypto Asset Service Providers in the Philippines: SEC Registration and Rules
How the SEC regulates crypto asset service providers in the Philippines under the Securities Regulation Code, and what registration and licensing rules apply.
Casino Investment in the Philippines: A Guide for Foreign Investors
Foreign investors can enter the Philippine casino industry through PAGCOR licensing, but the rules on operator qualifications and foreign equity must be checked first.
Representative Office Philippines Requirements: How Foreign Firms Can Set Up
Learn the representative office Philippines requirements, including SEC licensing, the $50,000 annual inward remittance, and what a representative office may and may not do.
Regional Headquarters and ROHQ in the Philippines: A Guide for Foreign Groups
How a foreign group sets up a regional headquarters or ROHQ in the Philippines: SEC licensing, BOI endorsement, capital remittance, and tax rules.
DMW License for Recruitment Agencies in the Philippines: Requirements
Learn how to secure a DMW license for recruitment agencies in the Philippines, including the requirements under RA 11641 and the licensing process.
PAGCOR-Approved Electronic Games: How the EGLD List Works
The PAGCOR-approved electronic games EGLD list is maintained by the Electronic Gaming Licensing Department and posted on PAGCOR's regulatory page.
Casino Compliance in the Philippines: PAGCOR and AML Obligations
Learn casino compliance in the Philippines, including PAGCOR licensing and anti-money laundering obligations under Philippine law.
Crypto Regulation in the Philippines: BSP Rules on Virtual Assets Explained
Learn how the BSP regulates cryptocurrency and virtual assets in the Philippines, including licensing rules for VASPs and legal compliance requirements.
Presidential Approval Required for PCAB Rules: Cooperative Licensing Case
Supreme Court ruling: PCAB regulations on contractor licensing need presidential approval, protecting construction cooperatives from forced incorporation.
Contractor Licensing in the Philippines: PCAB vs. DTI Jurisdiction Explained
The Supreme Court clarifies that PCAB, not DTI, has jurisdiction over complaints against unlicensed contractors in the Philippines.
Breach of Contract and Trust: Obligations in Film Licensing Agreements
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a licensee may reject films and whether licensors owe fees to third-party owners in licensing deals.
Customs Broker Accreditation Struck Down: Redundant Licensing Under the Customs Brokers Act
Supreme Court nullifies BOC accreditation requirement for customs brokers, affirming PRC's exclusive regulatory power under RA 9280.
Casino Franchise Agreements: PAGCOR Obligations and Investment Protection
Supreme Court guidance on casino franchise agreements, PAGCOR's licensing powers, and the limits of court intervention in administrative disputes.
Regulating Real Estate Professional Standards AND Property Rights IN THE Philippines
The Supreme Court upheld the Real Estate Service Act's licensing rules for developers, balancing professional standards with property rights.