For any aspiring business owner, SEC Philippines incorporation is the critical first step toward legal legitimacy . Whether you are establishing a domestic stock corporation , understanding the registration process is vital for a successful start.
Why Incorporate with the SEC?
Incorporating your business through the Securities and Exchange Commission provides several strategic advantages:
Asset Protection: It separates your private wealth from the debts of the company .
Enhanced Credibility : An SEC registration acts as a seal of approval for banks .
Business Continuity: The corporation continues even if ownership changes.
Step-by-Step Guide
As of 2026, the SEC has fully digitized the SEC Philippines incorporation procedure through platforms like SEC ZERO. Here is the typical path:
1. Name Reservation and Verification To begin, you must check your chosen corporate name via the online portal. Ensure the name is unique and in line with SEC regulations. If the name is available, you can reserve it for a minimal fee .
Step 2: Draft Your Charter This step involves preparing the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws . These outline the corporate mission, share distribution, and leadership protocols . For most corporations, a sworn statement is also necessary to prove the initial funding.
Step 3: Online Filing With the rise of eSecure, incorporators can now digitally sign their applications . This removes the traditional need for hard copies in many standard filings. After submission, the SEC evaluates the information for compliance.
Financial Considerations
Although the Revised Corporation Code eliminated the strict capital requirement for most domestic corporations, certain industries —like lending or recruitment —still require specific amounts. Registration fees are usually calculated on a percentage of your authorized capital stock .
Post-Incorporation Compliance
Obtaining your SEC Certificate is just the sec philippines incorporation beginning . To be fully operational, you must also:
Tax Registration: Obtain a COR from the tax office.
LGU Compliance: Obtain a permit and Mayor’s Permit from the city hall .
Employee Benefits: Register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG to cover your workforce .
Summary
Completing SEC Philippines incorporation in the current market is more efficient than ever due to digital reforms . By prepare your documents diligently , you can build a strong base for your business to grow in the Philippines .