Establishing a NGO in the Philippines revolves around the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Whether you are starting a small community group or a large-scale foundation, you must follow the current regulations to gain legal personality.
Step 1: Choose Your Organization Type
At the start, you must decide if you are forming a non-stock, non-profit corporation or a foundation.
Non-Stock Corporation: Typically sustained by membership dues and local contributions.
Foundation: This requires a starting endowment of ₱1,000,000.
What You Need for SEC Approval
To successfully file, you must prepare a specific set of requirements. As of 2026, the SEC operates through the eSPARC portal for online submissions.
The Checklist
Approved Corporate Name: Reserve your chosen name through the SEC online portal.
Articles of Incorporation (AOI): This outlines your organization’s purpose, principal office address, and the names of the incorporators.
By-Laws: These define the rules of operation, including how meetings are held and how directors are elected.
List of Members and Contributors: A certified list of the people funding the organization.
Financial how to register a non profit organization in the philippines Statement Affidavit: A sworn statement confirming the amount of donations received.
The Registration Process Explained
Once your documents are ready, follow these phases:
Digital Filing
File your notarized AOI and By-Laws through the eSPARC system. The SEC will evaluate the application for accuracy.
Phase 2: Payment of Fees
Settle the necessary filing fees. For a standard non-stock corporation, the total sec registration requirements for non profit organizations usually starts at ₱3,000 to ₱5,000, depending on how to register a non profit organization in the philippines processing charges.
Receiving Your COI
Upon satisfactory review, the SEC will issue your Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate proves that your organization is a registered body in the Philippines.
Beyond the SEC
Registration with the SEC is only requirements for sec registration of non profit organization the first step. To be completely compliant, you must:
Tax Registration: Apply for a Tax how to register a non profit organization in the philippines Identification Number (TIN) and secure a Certificate of Registration (Form 2303).
Seek Tax-Exempt Status: Non-profits are subject to tax unless exempt. You must file a request with the BIR for a Tax Exemption Ruling.
Local Government Permits: Obtain a Barangay Clearance and a Mayor's Business Permit from the LGU where your office is located.
Donee Institution Status: If you want your benefactors to claim tax credits, seek accreditation from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC).
Launching a non-profit is a major undertaking. By meeting these SEC standards, you ensure your organization remains compliant with Philippine law for years to come.