SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan > Manila, Philippines > Firm Profile
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan Offices
SYCIPLAW CENTER, 105 PASEO DE ROXAS
1226 MAKATI CITY
METRO MANILA 1226
Philippines
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SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan > The Legal 500 Rankings
Philippines > Antitrust and competition Tier 1
Philippines > Aviation Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s dedicated aviation practice handles the financing aspects of major deals, as well as the registration of aircraft with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. The team is adept at advising on issues concerning the tax treatment of international air carriers, in addition to providing pre-litigation and litigation advice to its roster of national and international clients. Under the joint leadership of Carina Laforteza, the group often works in collaboration with leading international law firms on cross-border fundraising transactions. The practice is also recommended for its advice on operating lease documents and on issues relating to obtaining a foreign air carrier’s permit. Bhong Paulo Macasaet is another key contact. Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo retired from the firm in August 2022.Practice head(s):
Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo; Carina Laforteza
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
BBAM Singapore Pe. Ltd.
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
Voyager Aviation Holdings (formerly Intrepid)
Nordic Aviation Capital A/S
SMBC Aviation Capital Limited
Dubai Aerospace International
Philippine National Bank
Philippines > Banking and finance Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan fields a versatile team that is well-equipped to advise foreign and local banks and financial institutions in addition to borrowers and issuers on the full spectrum of issues. It regularly advises on acquisition and project financing work, syndicated loans and refinancings as well as the issuance of securities, corporate notes and bonds. The practice is also well-placed to advise on renewable energy projects, infrastructure and real estate developments. Under the leadership of Vicente Gerochi, the group also has niche expertise in aviation financing as well as e-money, cryptocurrency and different payment services. Jan Celine Abaño-Ranada has extensive experience in project financing matters including hotel, gaming and real estate developments. Bhong Paulo Macasaet is also recommended. Senior partner Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo retired in August 2022.Practice head(s):
Vicente Gerochi
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very professional – works as a top tier law firm in the Philippines’.
Key clients
BDO Unibank, Inc./BDO
Philippine National Bank/PNB
Bank of the Philippine Islands/BPI
Standard Chartered Bank
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
HSBC
Citigroup
MUFG Bank
Mizuho Bank
Deutsche Bank
San Miguel Corporation
Work highlights
- Acted as counsel to BPI Capital Corporation as mandated lead arranger and Bank of the Philippine Islands as lender in connection with PHP26.9bn term loan facility to be granted to ISOC edotco Towers, Inc., a subsidiary of edotco Investments (Labuan) Ltd., to finance its acquisition of a portfolio of 2,973 towers in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao from the PLDT Group.
- Acted as counsel to the MLAUB and lender in connection with a PHP20bn term loan facility to be granted to Comworks Infratech Corp., a subsidiary of Edgepoint Infrastructure, to finance its acquisition of a portfolio of 2,934 towers in Luzon from PLDT Group.
- Represented the lenders in negotiations for an amended and restated loan agreement for the purposes of refinancing SLTEC’s outstanding P9.8bn loan facility, to fund the partial redemption of capital in SLTEC held by AC Energy, Inc.
Philippines > Corporate and M&A Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s thriving practice acts on high-end investments and M&A deals in the Philippines. Under the leadership of Rocky Alejandro Reyes, the practice excels in foreign investments, with demonstrable experience advising on related matters concerning competition law, including merger notifications, anti-money laundering regulations, data privacy and e-commerce issues. Key clients include major local corporations, as well as foreign and global companies. Managing partner Hector de Leon
focuses on equity investments, while senior partner Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo has a wealth of experience advising on a host of corporate and commercial matters. Of counsel Simeon Ken Ferrer is another key contact in the team.Practice head(s):
Rocky Alejandro Reyes
Other key lawyers:
Melyjane Bertillo-Ancheta; Benedicto Panigbatan; Arlene Maneja; Hector de Leon; Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo; Simeon Ken Ferrer
Testimonials
‘I have worked on a series of public offers of preferred shares and corporate bonds with the SyCip team. I appreciated that the same team dealt with us from the start so that there was continuity.’
‘I felt that we were able to build an excellent working relationship and the team understood our strategic objectives.’
‘I was impressed by Melyjane Bertillo-Ancheta’s attention to detail, openness to engage in long discussions with us so that our objectives are aligned.’
‘Benedicto Panigbatan worked with us to successfully conclude two joint venture agreements. I appreciated his extensive knowledge and experience. He showed patience and attention to detail.’
‘They are also always available and respond to queries on time.’
‘They also have the expertise, both theoretical and practical, to help us solve our problems. They also have a unique way of making laymen understand complex legal issues.’
‘I work with Arlene Maneja. I am very satisfied with her work. She delivers on-time and on-point.’
Key clients
Metro Pacific Group
San Miguel Corporation
Aboitiz Power Corporation
Nova Asia Company
Dentsu Aegis Network
Manila Electric Company
TPG Growth III SF Pte Ltd
Alipay
Mitsubishi Fudosan
Mitsubishi Corporation
AC Energy Philippines
Dairy Farm Management Limited
Work highlights
- Acted as local counsel to JERA Singapore (the purchaser) and JERA Japan (the parent corporation of JERA Singapore) on a deal, with King and Spalding (Singapore) LLP as the foreign counsel for the transaction.
- Provided advice regarding the implementation of a global sale in relation to the Philippines, including compliance with the Bulk Sales Law.
Philippines > Dispute resolution Tier 1
With Ricardo Ma. Palma Gil Ongkiko at the helm of SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan‘s litigation practice, the team has an enviable reputation in the market for its representation of local and foreign clients across a range of industries, including the mining, water, power and telecoms sectors. The first-rate department covers a broad spectrum of commercial disputes and garners praise for its strong appellate and Supreme Court practice, in addition representing clients before administrative agencies and in arbitration proceedings. Carlos Roberto Lopez has experience in trials and proceedings before the Philippine Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, while John Christian Joy Regalado specialises in commercial arbitration. Other key contacts in the team include Ma. Patricia Paz-Jacoba and Ramon Songco.Practice head(s):
Ricardo Ma. Palma Gil Ongkiko
Other key lawyers:
Carlos Roberto Lopez; John Christian Joy Regalado; Ma. Patricia Paz-Jacoba; Emmanuel Lombos; Ramon Songco
Testimonials
‘Highly capable and responsive. Provide commercially sound advice.’
‘Emmanuel Lombos is a senior statesman in the firm who works to the heart of a matter and gives excellent strategic advice.’
‘Ma. Patricia Paz-Jacoba is an excellent lawyer who goes the extra mile for her clients.’
‘A solid team of experienced and reliable dispute resolution specialists. They have good judgment, are great partners to work with and give sound advice.’
‘I have worked with Emmanuel Lombos and Ma. Patricia Paz-Jacoba, and their teams. Lombos is a senior statesman who is respected by clients and has good judgment. Paz-Jacoba is a hardworking, responsive and knowledgeable disputes partner, who provides excellent support on Philippines law disputes matters.’
‘They have a deep set of lawyers to handle different types of issues. They are quick to respond with their opinions and explain in laymans’ terms how to approach the problems legally. Ricardo Ma. Palma Gil Ongkiko is very thorough and looks at all angles of the problem.’
‘The team is thorough and goes the extra mile. All team members are able to identify possible roadblocks ahead of time, and therefore prepare appropriately. The quality of due diligence undertaken is excellent and makes the client feel supported.’
‘Carlos Roberto Lopez is one of a kind. His legal work is exemplary, he treats clients with compassion, and he pulls out all the stops to defend his client’s position in a fair and ethical manner.’
Key clients
First Pacific Company Ltd.
Citibank
PLDT, Inc.
Philex Mining Corporation
Manila Electric Company
Metro Pacific Investments Corporation
Philippine Stock Exchange
OceanaGold
Dow Chemical
Maynilad Water Services, Inc.
Chamber of Mines of the Philippines
Lepanto Consolidated Mining Corporation
Manila North Tollways Corporation
North Luzon Expressway Corporation
Pacific Ores Metals & Chemicals
Philippine Gold Processing & Refining
Keppel Group of Singapore
Cal Energy / CE Casecnan Water and Energy Co., Inc.
Ormat Power
San Roque Power
Del Monte
BMW AG
Ford Motor Company
Volkswagen AG
United Coconut Planters Bank
Bank of America
Export-Import Bank of the United States
Bank of the Philippine Islands
Filminera Resources
Philip Morris
Hawker Pacific
NSC Holdings
Mitsubishi Corporation
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Marubeni Corporation
Tokyu Construction
Toyo Construction
Hilton International
Delta Airlines
Qatar Airways
Grolier International
Wyeth
Colgate-Palmolive
Makati Medical Center
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
Adelaide and Meath Hospital
Lutheran Church Missouri Synod
AkzoNobel PNG Limited,
GIC
Kia Motors
Grab Holdings, Inc. (MYTAXI.PH)
Chevron
Philippine Geothermal Production Co., Inc.
Delta Design Philippines LLC (Cohu)
ACG Automotive Philippines, Inc.
NTT Docomo, Inc.
JLL Mortgage Services Pty. Ltd.
Astronergy Solar Philippines, Inc.
Integrated Marketing Services, Inc.
Johanna Subic Seafoods Corporation
Johanna Seafoods Limited
Nokia Shanghai Bell Co., Ltd.
Globe Telecom, Inc.
KEB Hana Bank
Mabuhay Interflour Mill, Inc.
Huang Hsiang Development Corporation
Prinpia Co., Ltd
Vibal Group
Pueblo de Oro Development Corporation
ICCP Land Management Inc.
Wirecard AG
d&b audiotechnik GmbH
Aspen Philippines, Inc.
Light Rail Manila Corporation
BAM International sarl
Firstsource Solutions Limited
Fordays Japan International Inc.
hibu (UK) Limited
Telus International Phils., Inc.
UPS Asia Group Pte Ltd.
Western Mindanao Power Corporation
Western Shipping Pte. Ltd.
Philippines > Immigration Tier 1
The employment, labour and immigration practice at SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan is led by Dante Pamintuan, and handles a broad array of immigration issues pertaining to visas and permits. It has been kept busy with citizenship matters and representing clients in adversarial proceedings relating to deportation and blacklisting cases. The group is well-equipped to handle multi-jurisdictional mandates and continues to advise leading domestic companies across the healthcare, banking and insurance sectors. Rodelle Bolante focuses on immigration matters and regularly advises on issues concerning visas and work permits.Practice head(s):
Dante Pamintuan
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Access Healthcare Services Manila, Inc.
ADP (Philippines), Inc.
AMMIC Philippines, Inc.
Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Inc.
Fordays Japan International, Inc.
Fragomen Singapore Pte. Ltd.
ISOC edotco Towers, Inc.
Quantrics Enterprises, Inc.
sanofi aventis Philippines, Inc.
TELUS International Philippines, Inc.
Work highlights
- Handling the in-country processing of work visas and work permits for Fragomen’s multinational clients operating in the Philippines.
- Advising Fordays Philippines on employment issues for its expatriates and other immigration matters and processes visas and permits for its foreign staff.
- Processing work visas and employment permits for Quantrics’ personnel.
Philippines > Intellectual property Tier 1
Led by Vida Panganiban-Alindogan, the nimble team at SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan handles a myriad of mandates, from trademark, copyright and patent protection issues to IP portfolio management. It is also adept at advising on the enforcement and licensing of IP rights, in addition to matters concerning the transfer of technology. Other key areas of expertise include IP litigation and enforcement cases, as well as administrative proceedings before the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. Anthony Dee advises on the enforcement of IP rights.Practice head(s):
Vida Panganiban-Alindogan
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG
Colgate-Palmolive Company
Dyson Technology
Gap Inc.
AbbVie Inc.
Rolex S.A.
Total S.A.
Pfizer Inc.
Tupperware Brands Corporation
Bostik Philippines, Inc.
Acer Incorporated
Philippines > Labour and employment Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan advises on all aspects of labour and employment matters under the leadership of Dante Pamintuan. Areas of expertise include advising on work permits, conducting employment due diligence and compliance audits, in addition to strike actions and collective bargaining negotiations. The team also advises on the enforcement of restrictive covenants, disciplinary actions and terminations. ‘Standout partner’ Leslie Dy acts for local and foreign investors on a broad range of employment matters, from employee stock option plans to disciplinary actions, while Amer Hussein Mambuay handles employment litigation, as well as the employment aspects of corporate M&As. The group is also recommended for its work on cross-border matters, with key clients including leading domestic companies.Practice head(s):
Dante Pamintuan
Other key lawyers:
Leslie Dy; Amer Hussein Mambuay; Russel Rodriguez; Ronald Mark Lleno
Testimonials
‘The team provides commercial advice that works for us. They have a good, practical understanding of the regulations.’
‘They have always dealt with us in a timely and professional manner and resolved issues that we have.’
‘I have worked with SyCip in the Philippines over a period of 12 years and have never had cause to question their recommendations and processes.’
‘The advice we get from SyCip’s labour and employment law practice group is very practical and reasonable. We are always presented with the best available options that we can implement or adopt.’
‘Ronald Mark Lleno employs a pragmatic and candid approach when dealing with our concerns. He can always discern the core issues and problems and offer us the most suitable solution or approach in resolving our concerns.’
‘This firm knows business-enabling lawyering. They provide legal solutions to make the business grow.’
‘Standout partner is Leslie Dy. She and her team have expertise in negotiations, labour and employment.’
Key clients
ADP Philippines Inc.
adidas
Advokatfirmaet Schjødt AS, filial
Agents Only Technologies Inc.
AIA Philippines
Allens Linklaters, Australia
Atlas Copco (Philippines), Inc.
Asian Development Bank
Boeing International Corporation
British Council
Burberry
Cargill Philippines Inc.
Chubb Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.
Clorox International Phils., Inc.
City Savings Bank
Citizen Machinery Philippines, Inc.
Connell Bros. Co. LLC
DTCC
ESS Manufacturing Company, Inc.
E-Trading Software Services
Firmenich Philippines, Inc.
Firstsource Solutions Limited – Philippine Branch
Fluor Daniel, Inc. – Philippines
Ford Group Philippines
Fordays Japan International, Inc.
Gardenia Bakeries (Philippines), Inc.
Green Cross Inc.
HAVI Logistics Philippines Inc.
HCL Technologies Ltd.
iGlobal Law NoInnodata Knowledge Philippines, Inc.
Isuzu Autoparts Manufacturing, Inc.
Kering Asia Pacific Limited
Korn Ferry NoKroll LLC
Linklaters Singapore Pte Ltd
LF (Philippines), Inc.
Loyola House of Studies, Inc.
Macquarie Capital Securities (Philippines) Inc.
Mitsubishi Corporation – Manila Branch
Mori Hamada & Matsumoto LPC
OceanaGold (Philippines), Inc.
Omnicom Media Group – Philippines
Principal Financial Group, Inc
Qatar Airways
Quantrics Enterprises, Inc.
Quezon Power (Philippines) Limited
Refinitv Asia Pte. Ltd.
S Division Holdings, Inc.
sanofi aventis Philippines, Inc.
STADA Philippines, Inc.
TDK Philippines Corporation
TE Connectivity Manufacturing Philippines Inc.
TELUS International Philippines, Inc.
The Asia Foundation NoTSB Enterprises, Inc.
Tupperware Brands Phils., Inc.
Union Bank of the Philippines
Work highlights
- Advised Shiseido and its Philippine entity, Shiseido Philippines Corporation, on the divestment by Shiseido Company Limited (Shiseido) of its personal care business through an asset sale in the Philippines to Fine Today Shiseido Co. Ltd.
- Represented Cargill Philippines, Inc. in 15 cases filed by around 70 individual complainants claiming that they are employees of the clients.
- Acted as the negotiator for Isuzu Autoparts Manufacturing Corp. during the collective bargaining negotiations with the union of rank-and-file employees.
Philippines > Projects and energy Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan fields an experienced team of lawyers led by Rocky Alejandro Reyes, which frequently acts for various stakeholders in the infrastructure and construction arenas on large-scale projects. Clients include employers and project proponents, banks and other financiers which lend funds to construction projects as well as construction contractors; the team also receives a steady flow of instructions from international law firms. The group also enjoys an excellent reputation for its work on projects for private energy production and has acted as principal legal consultant to independent power projects in Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia and other countries in the region. Managing partner Hector De Leon has a wealth of experience in representing clients in the energy, mining, oil and gas industries as well as in the infrastructure sector. Angel Salita is another notable name.Practice head(s):
Rocky Alejandro Reyes
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Metro Pacific Group
San Miguel Corporation
PLDT, Inc.
Aboitiz Power Corp.
Dentsu Aegis Network
Manila Electric Company
Bell Canada
United Laboratories, Inc.
Marriott
TMI Associates
Mitsui Fudosan
Mitsubishi Corporation
MasterCard
Gilbert & Tobin
Mitsui & Co
Skadden Arps
Hyatt International
Eversheds
Work highlights
- Acted as local counsel to JERA Singapore (the purchaser) and JERA Japan (the parent corporation of JERA Singapore) on JERA’s $1.6bn acquisition of 27% of Aboitiz Power Corporation.
Philippines > Real estate and construction Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan has considerable experience in high-end real estate transactions, advising on portfolio purchases and other complex deals for individuals, real estate developers, hotel operators, landowners and foreign government agencies. The practice also assists land developers on a broad range of projects, such as advising on industrial parks and other matters concerning economic zones, golf courses and multi-use projects. The agile team, which receives a steady flow of instructions from leading international law firms, continues to act for stakeholders on infrastructure and construction projects, and counts project proponents and construction contractors among its key roster of clients. Rocky Alejandro Reyes heads the department and John Paul de Leon is also a central figure in the group. Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo retired in August 2022.Practice head(s):
Rocky Alejandro Reyes
Other key lawyers:
John Paul De Leon; Benedicto Panigbatan
Testimonials
‘They have been assisting the company for more than 25 years now. They treat us as a VIP client and are always available for our legal needs.’
‘Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo has deep knowledge of real estate sector.’
‘Benedicto Panigbatan is capable and very detailed.’
Key clients
Metro Pacific Group
San Miguel Corporation
PLDT, Inc.
Aboitiz Power Corp.
Dentsu Aegis Network
Manila Electric Company
Bell Canada
United Laboratories, Inc.
Marriott
Mitsui Fudosan
Mitsubishi Corporation
Mitsui & Co
Hyatt International
Pueblo de Oro Development Corp.
Science Park of the Philippines
Arthaland Corporation
Galaxy Entertainment Group
Chevron Philippines, Inc.
Telus, Inc.
Work highlights
- Acted as Arthaland’s lead counsel in the back-to-back “divestment” and “financial investment/ joint venture” deals.
- Acting for Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.’s investment in Frontier Tower Associates Philippines, Inc. (FTAP).
Philippines > Shipping Tier 1
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan handles a myriad of maritime casualty cases, with demonstrable experience advising on marine insurance and fraud cases, in addition to cargo claims and other issues surrounding the arrest of ships to enforce a maritime lien or a security interest. The team receives plaudits for its expertise in transactions involving the financing, sale, chartering, crewing and registration of vessels, for both local and international companies. Rocky Alejandro Reyes, Vicente Gerochi and Russel Rodriguez head the practice and often collaborate with leading foreign law firms across Europe, Asia and the US on cross-border deals.Practice head(s):
Rocky Alejandro Reyes; Vicente Gerochi; Russel Rodriguez
Testimonials
‘I have cooperated with SyCip for years and they are good in the management of a case.’
‘Russel Rodriguez is my main point of contact and he runs his team well.’
Key clients
7107 Islands Shipping Corporation
All Seas Marine SA
Berwin and Leighton Paisner LLP
Crewcare, Inc.
Delta Meco Crewing Services, Inc.
El Victor Limited Ship and Crew Managers
Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Co. Inc.
Harbor Star Shipping Services, Inc.
Keppel Subic Shipyard, Inc.
Tsuneshi Shipyards, Inc.
Frabelle Food Corporation
Hoya Marine Corporation
Keppel Batangas Shipyard
Melaleuca of the Philippines, Inc.
Mayer Brown
Regal Ware, Inc.
SCG International (Philippines) Corporation
Steamship Insurance Management Services Limited
Stephenson Harwood LLP
Work highlights
- Representing Hoya Marine Corporation (Hoya Marine) in a civil case for damages for breach of contract of carriage against Philippine National Lines (PNL).
- Assisted clients, an in rem defendant and two in personam defendants, in responding to a verified complaint in personam and in rem against a Papua New Guinea-flagged fishing vessel.
- Advising on the enforcement of security relating to a local shipping company that entered into various sales contracts with two foreign companies for the sale and purchase of numerous pieces of equipment that are used by the local company for its shipping business.
Philippines > Tax Tier 1
The experienced team at SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan covers the full spectrum of issues from advising on the tax aspects of corporate transactions to litigating tax refund cases. The group also defends clients against assessments for national and local taxes and customs duties, and regularly advises corporate clients on their compliance obligations. Carina Laforteza is recommended for her work on tax structuring and compliance matters as well as tax-related litigation and arbitration, while Hector De Leon, Jr. has a strong tax practice covering an array of issues from real property tax to estate planning issues. Other names to note include Russel Rodriguez, Ronald Mark Lleno and Rolando Medalla Jr.Practice head(s):
Carina Laforteza; Hector De Leon, Jr.; Russel Rodriguez; Ronald Mark Lleno
Other key lawyers:
Patricia Paz-Jacoba; Rolando Medalla Jr
Testimonials
‘The SyCip tax team is miles ahead of other law firms because they deliver excellent legal advice on untested issues, which is both legally sound and commercially supportive. They make good on set internal deadlines and are commercially flexible without compromising on the integrity of their advice’.
‘Carina Laforteza is extremely hands-on and detail-oriented without losing sight of the bigger commercial picture. She is deeply knowledgeable and has a firm grasp of practicalities of any given situation’.
‘The firm has a very vast source of information to support legal claims like legislative intent from readings during Congress and Senate deliberations’.
‘The lawyers we work with understand the issues at hand and perform extensive research to legally defend the company’s stance. Partners working with us are Carina Laforteza and Patricia Paz-Jacoba’.
Philippines > TMT Tier 1
At SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan, Rocky Alejandro Reyes leads the team, which is recommended for its work on the full spectrum of TMT matters from advising on e-commerce platforms and streaming services to telematics, data centres, gaming issues and telecoms towers. The group also has a wealth of experience in fintech matters and often advises clients on money remittance, e-money and online financial transactions and payments. In addition, the group excels in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology work and has niche expertise in advising on satellite services and submarine cable networks. John Paul De Leon is renowned for his work on fintech matters, and Rose Marie King-Dominguez advises some of the most prominent global entities in the technology and media sectors.Practice head(s):
Rocky Alejandro Reyes
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Metro Pacific Group
PLDT Inc.
Smart Telecommunications
Dentsu Aegis Network
Zalora
Thomson Reuters
San Miguel Corporation
Philippines > Capital markets Tier 2
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan is known for its ability to handle a variety of complex transactions and routinely acts for both foreign and local banks and financial institutions as well as for the issuers of securities. Vicente Gerochi IV leads the practice, which has recently been involved in a range of capital market deals that span a range of sectors including the food and beverage, real estate and port operations industries. It also receives a steady flow of instructions from foreign law firms. Senior partner Marievic Ramos- Añonuevo plays a pivotal role in the department and often advises local and international financial institutions. Of counsel Simeon Ken Ferrer is another name to note along with Joan Mae To-Conejos.Practice head(s):
Vicente Gerochi IV
Other key lawyers:
Joan Mae To-Conejos; Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo; Simeon Ken Ferrer
Key clients
BDO Unibank, Inc./BDO Capital & Investment Corporation
Philippine National Bank/PNB Capital & Investment Corporation
Bank of the Philippine Islands/BPI Capital Corporation
Standard Chartered Bank
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
HSBC
Citigroup
MUFG Bank
Mizuho Bank
Deutsche Bank
San Miguel Corporation
National Grid Corporation of the Philippines
Synergy Grid & Development Phils., Inc.
Work highlights
- Acted as Philippine counsel to Grab Holdings Limited on various complex matters.
- Acted as counsel for an issuer in relation to the offer and issuance of fixed rate bonds due 2024 as the fourth tranche under its PHP100bn Bond Program.
- Acted as counsel to various financial entities in relation to the offer in the Philippines by San Miguel Corporation of Series I Bonds.
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan > Firm Profile
The firm: SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is one of the largest law firms in the Philippines with branch offices in Cebu City, Davao City, and the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. It is a full-service law firm and was founded in 1945.
The firm offers a broad and integrated range of legal services, including those in the following fields:
- M&A and special projects
- Banking, finance and securities
- Corporate services and general commercial law
- Employment law and immigration
- Litigation and dispute resolution
- Tax
- Intellectual property
SyCipLaw has specialists in key practice areas such as anti-trust and competition, energy, infrastructure, real estate, data privacy, natural resources, government contracts, insurance, international arbitration, and TMT.
SyCipLaw is ranked as a top-tier firm by Chambers Asia-Pacific, Chambers Global, The Legal 500 Asia Pacific, IFLR1000, asialaw Profiles, and International Tax Review, and Benchmark Litigation rankings.
Clients: The firm represents clients from almost every industry and enterprise, and its client portfolio includes local and global business leaders. It also acts for governmental agencies, international organisations and non-profit institutions.
Recognition and awards:
- Band 1 Firm in Banking & Finance, Corporate/M&A, Real Estate, Dispute Resolution, Arbitration, Employment, Intellectual Property, Projects, Infrastructure & Energy, and Tax, Chambers Asia Pacific Rankings 2023
- Tier 1 Firm in Antitrust & Competition, Aviation, Banking and Finance, Corporate and M&A, Dispute Resolution, Immigration, Intellectual Property, Labor & Employment, Projects and Energy, Real Estate and Construction, Shipping, Tax, and Technology, Media and Telecoms (TMT), The Legal 500 Asia Pacific Rankings 2023
- Ranked “Outstanding” in all 15 practice area categories, asialaw 2023
- Most Outstanding Law Firm of the Year – Philippines, asialaw Awards 2023
- Tier 1 Firm, Tax Controversy, International Tax Review (ITR) World Tax 2023
- Band 1 Firm in Banking & Finance, Corporate/M&A, Projects, Infrastructure & Energy, Chambers Global Rankings 2022
- National Firm of the Year: Philippines, IFLR Asia Pacific Awards 2022
- Philippine Tax Firm of the Year, International Tax Review (ITR) Asia Tax Awards 2022
- Philippine Tax Disputes Firm of the Year, ITR Asia Tax Awards 2022
- Tier 1 Firm, Trademark, Managing IP’s IP Stars 2022
- Tier 1 Firm, Patents and Copyright/ Trademarks, Asian Legal Business (ALB) IP Rankings 2022
- Gold ranking, World Trade Mark Research (WTR) 1000, 2022
- Tier 1 Firm, Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific, 2022
- Antitrust & Competition Team of the Year, The Legal 500 Southeast Asia Awards 2020/21
Main Contacts
| Department | Name | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banking, finance and securities | Philbert E. Varona | pevarona@syciplaw.com | |
| Corporate services | Imelda A. Manguiat | iamanguiat@syciplaw.com | |
| Intellectual property | Vida M. Panganiban-Alindogan | vmpanganiban@syciplaw.com | |
| Employment and Immigration | Dante T. Pamintuan | dtpamintuan@syciplaw.com | |
| Litigation | Ricardo Ma. PG Ongkiko | rmpgongkiko@syciplaw.com | |
| Special projects | Rocky Alejandro L. Reyes | ralreyes@syciplaw.com | |
| Tax | Carina C. Laforteza | cclaforteza@syciplaw.com |
Lawyer Profiles
| Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ms Jan Celine Abaño-Ranada | Jan Celine C. Abaño-Ranada is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Ms Leah Abutan | Leah C. Abutan is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. | View Profile |
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| Mr Rodelle Bolante | Rodelle B. Bolante is a member of the firm’s Employment and Immigration… | View Profile |
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| Ms Cecile Margaret Caro-Selvaggio | Ms. Caro-Selvaggio is a special counsel in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Ms Easter Princess Castro | Easter Princess U. Castro is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Mr Il Young Choi | Il Young Choi is an associate in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan… | View Profile |
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| Mr John Paul De Leon | John Paul V. de Leon is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez… | View Profile |
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| Mr Hector De Leon, Jr. | Hector M. De Leon, Jr. is SyCipLaw’s managing partner. His practice focuses… | View Profile |
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| Mr Anthony Dee | Mr. Dee is a partner in Sycip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He has represented… | View Profile |
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| Mr Miguel Franco Dimayacyac | Mr. Dimayacyac is an associate at SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He is… | View Profile |
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| Ms Leslie Dy | Leslie C. Dy is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Mr Simeon Ken Ferrer | Simeon Ken R. Ferrer is an of counsel in SyCip Salazar Hernandez… | View Profile |
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| Mr Vicente Gerochi IV | Vicente D. Gerochi IV has represented Philippine and international banks and multilateral… | View Profile |
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| Ms Joanna Marie Joson | Joanna Marie O. Joson is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Ms Rose Marie King-Dominguez | Rose Marie M. King-Dominguez is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Ms Carina Laforteza | Carina C. Laforteza is a lawyer and a certified public accountant with… | View Profile |
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| Mr Franco Aristotle Larcina | Mr. Larcina is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He… | View Profile |
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| Mr Ronald Mark Lleno | Ronald Mark C. Lleno specializes in litigation and employment law. His practice… | View Profile |
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| Mr Carlos Roberto Lopez | Carlos Roberto Z. Lopez is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Mr Bhong Paulo Macasaet | Bhong Paulo A. Macasaet is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Mr Amer Hussein Mambuay | Amer Hussein N. Mambuay is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Ms Arlene Maneja | Arlene M. Maneja is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan… | View Profile |
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| Ms Imelda Manguiat | Imelda A. Manguiat is a partner in SyCip Salzar Hernandez & Gatmaitan… | View Profile |
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| Mr Enrique Manuel | Mr. Manuel has more than 30 years of experience as an IP… | View Profile |
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| Ms Anna Loraine Mendoza | Anna Loraine M. Mendoza is a senior associate of SyCip Salazar Hernandez… | View Profile |
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| Ms Marianne Miguel | Marianne M. Miguel is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Mr Michael Trance Joseph Nuñez | Michael Trance Joseph M. Nuñez is an associate at SyCip Salazar Hernandez… | View Profile |
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| Mr Jose Florante Pamfilo | Jose Florante M. Pamfilo is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Mr Dante Pamintuan | Dante T. Pamintuan heads the Employment and Immigration Department of SyCip Salazar… | View Profile |
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| Ms Vida Panganiban-Alindogan | Vida M. Panganiban-Alindogan heads the firm’s Intellectual Property Department. Her practice area… | View Profile |
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| Mr Benedicto Panigbatan | Benedicto P. Panigbatan is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Ms Ma. Patricia Paz | Ma. Patricia B. Paz is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Ms Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo | Marievic G. Ramos-Añonuevo has been in law practice for 34 years and… | View Profile |
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| Mr John Christian Joy Regalado | John Regalado is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He… | View Profile |
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| Mr Rocky Alejandro Reyes | Rocky Alejandro L. Reyes heads the firm’s Special Projects Department. He specializes… | View Profile |
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| Mr Russel Rodriguez | Russel L. Rodriguez is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Mr Angel Salita | Angel M. Salita, Jr. is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Mr Ramon Songco | Ramon G. Songco is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Mr Nathaniel Andrew Uy | Mr. Nathaniel Andrew Uy is a senior associate in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
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| Mr Philbert Varona | Philbert E. Varona is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.… | View Profile |
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| Ms Maria Viola Vista | Maria Viola B. Vista is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 115Languages
English Spanish Japanese Mandarin Korean FilipinoMemberships
Employment Law Alliance Multilaw Pacific Rim Advisory Council World Law Group World Services Group The Interlex GroupOther
Managing Partner : Hector M. De Leon, Jr Business Development Manager : Marie M. IngcocoInternational Capabilities
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) represents clients from almost every industry and enterprise, and the Firm’s client portfolio includes local and global business leaders. We also act for governmental agencies, international organizations, and non-profit institutions.
SyCipLaw maintains links with established and leading firms based in other jurisdictions, including the United States, and countries in Europe and Asia. We are an active member of various international lawyers’ associations Employment including:
- Law Alliance (ELA)
- The Interlex Group
- Multinational Association of Law Firms (Multilaw)
- Pacific Rim Advisory Council (PRAC)
- World Law Group (WLG)
- World Services Group
Aside from the firm’s international networks, its lawyers are members of various international and local professional organizations and associations.
Our recent professional awards include:
- Band 1 Firm, Chambers Asia-Pacific Rankings 2021 and 2022
- Ranked “Outstanding” in all 15 categories in the 2022 asialaw Rankings for the Philippines
- Antitrust and Competition Team of the Year, The Legal 500 Southeast Asia Awards 20/21
- Philippine Tax Firm of the Year, International Tax Review Asia Tax Awards 2021
- Top Tier Firm, Legal500 Asia-Pacific 2021
- Top Tier Firm, IFLR1000 30th Edition
- Philippine Firm of the Year, Chambers Asia-Pacific Awards 2021
- Firm of the Year – Philippines, Benchmark Asia-Pacific Awards 2021
- Philippine Firm of the Year, Chambers Asia-Pacific Awards 2020
- Philippines Firm of the Year, asialaw Awards 2020
- Client Service Excellence Award Firm of the Year (Philippines), asialaw Awards 2020
- Collaboration Award, TrustLaw 2019
- Philippine Firm of the Year 2019, In-House Community
- Philippine Law Firm of the Year, ABLJ Philippine Law Firm Awards 2019
- Best Overall Law Firm of the Year, ABLJ Philippine Law Firm Awards 2019
Press Releases
SyCipLaw Corporate Services Bulletin
24th May 2023 The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has extended the deadline for applications for amnesty for late and non-filing of annual financial statements (AFS), general information sheets (GIS), as well as non-compliance with SEC Memorandum Circular No. 28, series of 2020 (Requirement for Corporations, Partnerships, Associations, and Individuals to Create and/or Designate E-mail Account Address and Cellphone Number for Transactions with the Commission) (MC28).SyCipLaw is Recognized as a Top Tier Firm by The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific 2022
24th January 2022 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is the Philippine law firm that received the most number of “Tier 1” rankings for 2022 in The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific.SyCipLaw Announces New Corporate Services Department Head
2nd June 2021 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Imelda A. Manguiat, a senior partner of the firm, as the new head of its Corporate Services (CS) Department, effective on June 1, 2021.SyCipLaw Admits Four New Partners
15th March 2021 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce the admission to the partnership of Easter Princess U. Castro-Ty, Joanna Marie O. Joson, Maria Viola B. Vista, and Maria Christina C. Ortua-Ang.SyCipLaw Sweeps The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2021 Rankings Again
1st March 2021 SyCipLaw was ranked top tier level in all the relevant practice areas by the Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2021 ranking, the only Philippine law firm able to do so.Announcement of New Senior Associates
1st March 2021 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce the promotion of eleven Associates to the position of Senior Associates: Eleanor N. Balaquiao, Mark Kevin U. Dellosa, Norberto P. Geraldez, Jr., Anne Katherine P. Navarette, Javierose M. Ramirez, Loubelle L. Razon, Ramon I. Rocha, IV, Nikko Emmanuel D. Silva, April Gayle U. Soller, Jericho R. Tiu and Nathaniel Andrew Y. Uy.SyCipLaw’s rankings in Chambers Asia-Pacific 2021
1st March 2021 Chambers and Partners Asia-Pacific Rankings has released its 2021 rankings of the leading law firms across the region. SyCipLaw is proud and honored to be listed alongside highly regarded firms in Asia-Pacific.SyCipLaw’s LSIP Wraps Up with a Virtual Conversation with Social Entrepreneurs
1st March 2021 SyCipLaw recently wrapped up its Lawyers for Social Impact Project (LSIP) -- a year-long program where lawyers of the firm worked pro bono for social enterprises selected and supported by the Innovation for Social Impact Project (ISIP) of Philippine S&T Development Foundation – Manila, Inc. (PhilDev) -- with a virtual staff meeting attended by SyCipLaw lawyers, PhilDev officers and staff, and representatives of the firm's clients under the project.SyCipLaw Inks Cooperation Agreement with Justice Without Borders
1st March 2021 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) has signed a Cooperation Agreement with Justice Without Borders (JWB), pursuant to which SyCipLaw may provide JWB with pro bono services in connection with cross-border claims by returning overseas Filipino workers against their former employers and/or recruitment agencies in Singapore or Hong Kong.SyCip Lawyers Support PBSP’s Learning Continuity Project
19th October 2020 Since 2017, SyCipLaw has supported the Ready for School program of the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), the largest business-led NGO in the country. These efforts have included sending teams to public schools to help prepare classrooms, paint chairs, sort and wrap books, and engage with teachers and students, all for the start of the school year. But this year, students will not be heading back to those classrooms. With the pandemic preventing most schools in the Philippines from holding regular classes to avoid infection outbreaks, schools will remain empty and the challenge for the country is how to push learning continuity for students and school-age children.SyCipLaw becomes first law firm member of PBSP
29th April 2020 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) was formally introduced as a member of Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), during PBSP’s annual members’ meeting and 49th founding anniversary celebration held last January 28. SyCipLaw is the first Philippine law firm to be admitted as a member of PBSPSyCipLaw Kicks-off 75th Anniversary Celebration with Pasasalamat and Justice VV Mendoza’s Reflection
29th April 2020 SyCipLaw, which marks its 75th year this 2020, kicked off its jubilee celebration with “Pasasalamat”, an all-hands gathering at the SyCiplaw Center. Its highlights were a jubilee message from Hector de Leon, Jr., the firm’s managing partner, a thanksgiving Mass and interfaith prayers, and a special talk from retired Supreme Court Justice and SyCiplaw alumnus Vicente V. Mendoza.SyCipLaw MP nominated TrustLaw Lawyer of the Year 2018
5th September 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s Managing Partner Hector M. de Leon, Jr. is one of six finalists worldwide for TrustLaw’s Lawyer of the Year award. The award recognizes exceptional pro bono work.
Public online voting is open until August 31 (Friday) through this link: www.surveygizmo.com/s3/4496581/Vote-for-TrustLaw-Lawyer-of-the-Year-2018.
SyCipLaw joins PBSP’s ‘Ready for School’
5th September 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan joined the kick-off activity of the Philippine Business for Social Progress’ annual “Ready for School” campaign last May 26 at the Taguig National High School in New Lower Bicutan, Taguig City. SyCipLaw volunteers helped prepare the school in time for the opening of classes last June. The activities included repainting of school chairs and blackboards, covering of books, construction of reading nooks, and cleaning of classrooms.
9 SyCipLaw Lawyers Recognized in ABLJ List of Top 100 Lawyers in the Philippines
5th September 2018Asia Business Law Journal’s list of top 100 lawyers in the Philippines includes nine lawyers from SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. The list was based on extensive research conducted by the publication, including nominations made by professionals in Filipino and global companies and law firms.
SyCipLaw is an IAM Patent 1000 Recommended Firm
21st August 2018
SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan has been ranked by IAM
Patent 1000: The World’s Leading Patent Professionals 2018 as a Recommended
Firm. SyCipLaw IP department head Enrique T. Manuel and partner Vida
M. Panganiban-Alindogan are also ranked as leading individuals.
Highlights: WSG 2018 Asia Pacific Regional Meeting
17th August 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan hosted the World Services Group (WSG) 2018 Asia Pacific Regional Meeting last March 13-14, 2018. The meeting was attended by over 40 representatives from 22 member firms worldwide, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Colombia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Jersey, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Taiwan, and USA.
In Memoriam: Andres G. Gatmaitan
9th August 2018SyCipLaw mourns the passing of Andres G. Gatmaitan, a name partner and a former managing partner of the firm. He died at the age of 78.
Highlights: ELA Asia Pacific Client Conference
22nd June 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan hosted the Employment Law Alliance (ELA) Asia Pacific Client Conference last March 13, 2018. The meeting was attended by 57 representatives from 26 Philippine companies, and by 27 representatives from ELA member firms in China, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Highlights: Multilaw Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting 2018
22nd June 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan hosted the Multilaw Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting last March 12-13, 2018. The meeting was attended by 31 representatives from Multilaw member firms in Australia, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, UK, and Vietnam.
SyCipLaw at the 1st Annual Center for the Amicable Resolution of Disputes International Conference
22nd May 2018Ricardo Ma. P.G. Ongkiko, head of SyCipLaw’s Litigation Department, recently gave the Welcome Remarks for the 1st Annual Center for the Amicable Resolution of Disputes International Conference held last February 9, 2018 at The Bayleaf Intramuros in Manila, Philippines. The conference was jointly organized by the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) and the Philippine Institute of Arbitrators (PIArb), of which Mr. Ongkiko was the immediate past President and presently Chairman.
SyCipLaw Partners Listed as 2018 Commended External Counsel
22nd May 2018SyCipLaw partners Carlos Roberto Z. Lopez and Vicente D. Gerochi IV were nominated to the In-House Community’s Commended External Counsel of the Year, 2018.
Kapihan sa SyCip: “All Aboard the Train: A Kapihan on TRAIN”
22nd May 2018SyCipLaw’s Tax Department hosted a seminar on the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) last February 15 at the SyCipLaw Center. The event gathered 60 participants from 32 companies.
SyCipLaw is Tier 1 Firm in IP STARS 2018 Rankings
2nd May 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) was once again ranked by Managing IP’s IP STARS 2018 as a Tier 1 firm in Patent and Trademarks/Copyright in the Philippines. In addition, SyCipLaw partners Enrique T. Manuel and Vida M. Panganiban-Alindogan are ranked as Trade mark star – Philippines. Mr. Manuel is also ranked as Patent star – Philippines.
Deadline Extended: Justice Florentino P. Feliciano Arbitration Writing Competition
2nd May 2018The submission deadline of the Justice Florentino P. Feliciano Arbitration Writing Competition has been extended to 5:00 pm of June 30, 2018. The competition is open to any student who, on the deadline for submission, is enrolled in the Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Laws program of any Philippine law school.
SyCipLaw Partner CRZ Lopez Recognized in Client Choice 2018
25th April 2018SyCipLaw partner Carlos Roberto Z. Lopez has been recognized at the Client Choice Awards 2018.
The Client Choice Awards was established in 2005 to recognize law firm partners around the world who stand out for their excellent client service. This year, the Awards recognized 384 partners across 66 jurisdictions worldwide based on quality of legal advice, commercial awareness, industry knowledge, strategic thinking, billing transparency, tailored fee structures, value for money, responsiveness, effective communication, clarity of documentation, sharing of expertise, appropriate staffing, project management, use of technology, loyalty and ethics.
Announcement of New Senior Associate: ARV Jacoba
22nd March 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan is pleased to announce the promotion of Anthony R.V. Jacoba as senior associate effective January 1, 2018.
ELA & SyCipLaw Contribution to Trinity Domus Funds in Dominica
22nd March 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan joined fellow Employment Law Alliance (ELA) members in raising funds for the rebuilding and refitting of educational and daycare facilities in Dominica following the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. SyCipLaw is ELA’s exclusive member firm in the Philippines.
Chambers Global 2018 ranks SyCipLaw as Band 1 Firm
13th March 2018 Chambers Global 2018 has ranked SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan as a Band 1 firm in Corporate & Finance and Projects, Infrastructure & Energy.SyCipLaw named Philippine Law Firm of the Year at Chambers Asia-Pacific Awards 2018
21st February 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan was recognized as Philippine Law Firm of the Year at the Chambers Asia-Pacific Awards 2018. SyCipLaw partners Rocky Alejandro L. Reyes and Russel L. Rodriguez received the award on the firm’s behalf.
SyCipLaw supports “Sa Pagbasa, May Pag-asa” Storybook Donation Drive
21st February 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan collected a total of PhP55,100.00 and 169 books in support of the “Sa Pagbasa, May Pag-asa” storybook donation drive. The campaign advocates the exposure of public school children to a wide range of creative, interesting, and age-appropriate reading materials, and, in so doing, instill in them a culture of reading that is critical to the learning and development process.
Canadian Bioenergy Mission to the Philippines
13th February 2018SyCipLaw partner Arlene M. Maneja was a guest speaker on “Regulatory Framework for Renewable Energy” at the Bioenergy Mission to the Philippines co-organized by the Embassy of Canada in Manila and the Philippine Department of Energy.
Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2018 ranks SyCipLaw as Top Tier Firm
29th January 2018 The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2018 has recommended SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan as a TOP-TIER FIRM in 15 practice areas. In addition, 14 of its lawyers are listed in the elite "Leading Lawyers" list and 7 are in the "Next generation lawyers" list.Justice Florentino P. Feliciano Arbitration Writing Competition
29th January 2018The Philippine Institute of Arbitrators, in partnership with SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw), launched the first Justice Florentino P. Feliciano Arbitration Writing Competition.
Chambers Asia-Pacific 2018 ranks SyCipLaw as Band 1 Firm
29th January 2018 Chambers Asia-Pacific 2018 has once again ranked SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan as a Band 1 Firm in Banking & Finance; Banking & Finance: Capital Markets; Corporate/M&A; Corporate/M&A: Real Estate; Dispute Resolution; Dispute Resolution: Arbitration; Employment; Intellectual Property; Projects, Infrastructure & Energy; and Tax.SyCipLaw is listed in the Asialaw Profiles 2018
3rd January 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is listed in various rankings in the Asialaw Profiles 2018. The firm is outstanding in Banking & Finance; Capital Markets, Construction & Real Estate; Corporate/M&A; Dispute Resolution & Litigation; Energy & Natural Resources; Intellectual Property; IT, Telco & Media; Labour & Employment; and Taxation. It is highly recommended in Projects & Infrastructure; and Shipping, Maritime & Aviation; and recommended in Competition & Antitrust.
Joint Trade Asian Insurance Regulatory Conference 2017
3rd January 2018SyCipLaw partner Hiyasmin H. Lapitan was a panelist on “Critical Regulatory Issues and Update from Jurisdictional Insurance Regulatory Lawyers” at the Joint Trade Asian Insurance Regulatory Conference 2017 last October 20 at the Marina Bay Sands Singapore. Ms. Lapitan and other featured insurance regulatory experts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Japan and South Korea discussed updates and shared insights on property/casualty insurance, life insurance and reinsurance developments in their respective countries.
Joint Trade Asian Insurance Regulatory Conference 2017
3rd January 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is named the 2017 Philippines Firm of the Year by Managing Intellectual Property (IP). The firm is also ranked in Patent, and Trademark and Copyright listings. SyCipLaw is Tier 1 in Trade Mark Prosecution, Trade Mark Contentious, and Patent. It is recommended in Copyright.
SyCipLaw is Philippines Firm of the Year at the 1st asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards
3rd January 2018SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) was recognized as the Philippines Firm of the Year at the Asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards 2017. SyCipLaw partner Leslie C. Dy received the award on the firm’s behalf.
SyCipLaw is largest Philippine firm in 2017 ALB survey
7th December 2017In its November 2017 cover story on the 2017 Asia Top 50, ALB lists SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan as the largest law firm in the Philippines. ALB’s Asia Top 50 is an annual list of Asia’s largest law firms by headcount.
SyCipLaw is Tier 1 in 2017 Asia IP Rankings
1st December 2017Asia IP recognized SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s Intellectual Property (IP) practice in its various 2017 rankings this year. SyCipLaw is a Top Tier Philippine Firm in:
- Copyright, Asia IP Best of the Best: Copyright
- Trademark Prosecution and Trademark Contentious, Asia IP Asia’s Leading Trademark Firms
- Patent Prosecution and Patent Contentious, Asia IP Asia’s Leading Patent Firms
SyCipLaw Receives 4 asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards Nominations
16th November 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) received nominations for the Philippines Firm of the Year; Banking & Finance Firm of the Year; IT, Telecoms & Media Firm of the Year; and South-east Asia Firm of the Year categories of the inaugural asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards.
SyCipLaw is Top Tier Firm in IFLR1000 2018 Rankings
8th November 2017The IFLR1000 2018 rankings are out. SyCipLaw is ranked Tier 1 in all practice areas covered by their research. These are: Banking, M&A, Project finance, Capital markets, Project development, and Restructuring and insolvency.
SyCipLaw is Philippine Law Firm of the Year at the ALB Philippine Law Awards 2017
27th October 2017For the second year in a row, SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) was named Philippine Law Firm of the Year, Arbitration Law Firm of the Year, and Banking and Financial Services Law Firm of the Year at the 2nd ALB Philippine Law Awards. The firm also received the Construction and Real Estate Law Firm of the Year, while SyCipLaw partner Emmanuel M. Lombos was named Dispute Resolution Lawyer of the Year.
SyCipLaw is National Law Firm of the Year at the 2017 Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards
19th October 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) was recognized as the Philippine National Law Firm of the Year at the 2017 Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards. SyCipLaw partners Anthony W. Dee and Ronald Mark C. Lleno received the award on the firm’s behalf.
6 SyCipLaw Lawyers Included in Who’s Who Legal 2017 Experts Lists
5th October 2017Six of SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s lawyers are listed in various Who’s Who Legal 2017 experts lists. Who’s Who Legal publishes 34 individual practice area guides covering corporate and commercial law, listing leading experts in these practice areas from over 150 national jurisdictions.
SyCipLaw receives 12 ALB Philippine Law Awards 2017 nominations
5th October 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) has been shortlisted in twelve categories of the ALB Philippine Law Awards 2017. The firm is nominated for ten firm of the year categories, and two of its partners are nominated for lawyer of the year categories.
SyCipLaw receives Who’s Who Legal 2017 Country Award
26th September 2017The July 2017 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes a Philippine regional update by SyCipLaw partner Hiyasmin H. Lapitan and associate Jo Margarette W. Remollo entitled, “Guidelines on Related Party Transactions for Insurers in the Philippines”. The article summarizes the Insurance Commission’s compliance guidelines on related party transactions, as set out in Insurance Circular Letter No. 2017-29. The Circular covers insurers, reinsurers, branch offices of foreign insurers, mutual benefit associations, pre-need companies, and health maintenance organizations and their intermediaries.
Limay Project Recognized as Best Power Deal in the Asia Pacific Region
18th January 2017The Limay, Bataan power project was recognized by IJGlobal as the “Best Power Deal in the Asia Pacific Region”. SyCipLaw acted as local counsel to DBS Bank Ltd., Mizuho Bank, Ltd. and Standard Chartered Bank, the structuring banks in the US$400 million Project Financing of a new 300MW coal-fired power plant in Limay, Bataan of SMC Consolidated Power Corp. Read more information on this transaction.
SIAC Rules 2016 Roadshow
18th January 2017The Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) held “The User’s Guide to the SIAC Rules 2016” last November 24, 2016 and the Young SIAC (YSIAC) Advocacy Workshop last November 25, 2016.
Announcement of New SyCipLaw Partners
18th January 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce the admission of Aaron Roi B. Riturban and Franco Aristotle G. Larcina to the partnership.
Highlights: PRAC 60th International Conference in Manila
18th January 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan hosted the Pacific Rim Advisory Council (PRAC) 60th International Conference last September 24-27, 2016. The Conference gathered 43 delegates from PRAC member firms in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, The Netherlands, and the United States of America. The conference program provided delegates with various learning and networking opportunities.
ALB: “SyCip Sweeps First-Ever ALB Philippine Law Awards”
4th January 2017The December 2016 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes an article entitled “SyCip Sweeps First-Ever ALB Philippine Law Awards”. The article, located on page 30 of the issue, discussed SyCipLaw’s received awards during the event, including Philippine Law Firm of the Year, Arbitration Law Firm of the Year, and Banking and Financial Services Law Firm of the Year.
Announcement of New SyCipLaw Partners
4th January 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce the admission of Aaron Roi B. Riturban and Franco Aristotle G. Larcina to the partnership.
Asialaw Leading Lawyers 2016
4th January 2017Asialaw has released its 2016 edition of the Asialaw Leading Lawyers.
The publication lists the leading practitioners in 18 practice areas in 24 jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region. In-house counsel, corporate executives and lawyers at local, regional and international law firms participated in an online survey between December 2015 and February 2016. Respondents nominated individual lawyers who excelled in one or more of 18 practice areas based on their work and reputation.
IFLR1000 2017 Financial and Corporate Rankings
4th January 2017Congratulations to SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan practice groups and partners ranked in the recently released IFLR1000 2017 Financial and Corporate rankings!
Limay Project Recognized as Best Power Deal in the Asia Pacific Region
4th January 2017The Limay, Bataan power project was recognized by IJGlobal as the “Best Power Deal in the Asia Pacific Region”. SyCipLaw acted as local counsel to DBS Bank Ltd., Mizuho Bank, Ltd. and Standard Chartered Bank, the structuring banks in the US$400 million Project Financing of a new 300MW coal-fired power plant in Limay, Bataan of SMC Consolidated Power Corp. Read more information on this transaction.
The IJGlobal Awards celebrates the outstanding transactions and institutions in infrastructure finance. The Asia-Pacific dinner was held on March 3, 2016 in Singapore. Visit the IJGlobal Awards website for more information and the full list of winners
SyCipLaw Shortlisted for the Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2016
4th January 2017SyCipLaw has been shortlisted for the Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2016 in three categories. The firm was nominated as National Law Firm of the Year and Best Domestic Arbitration Firm of the Year. SyCipLaw partner Emmanuel M. Lombos was nominated as Disputes Star of the Year.
SyCipLaw Advises Borrowers in Pagbilao LNG Power Plant and Hub Terminal Project
4th January 2017SyCipLaw is acting as borrower’s counsel for Energy World Corporation in the P6.75 billion financing package to partially fund the development of the first phase of the proposed 650-megawatt liquefied natural gas combined cycle power plant in Pagbilao, Quezon Province.
ALB M&A Rankings 2016
4th January 2017SyCipLaw is ranked once again as a tier 1 firm for M&A in the Philippines by Asian Legal Business (ALB). The full results of ALB's M&A Rankings 2016 was published in its September 2016 issue.
PRAC 60th International Conference in Manila
4th January 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan is hosting the Pacific Rim Advisory Council (PRAC) 60th International Conference in Manila on September 24-27, 2016 at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City.
SyCipLaw Advises Borrowers in Tiwi-MakBan Geothermal Plants Project
4th January 2017SyCipLaw acted as borrower's counsel for AP Renewables, Incorporated (APRI), a unit of Philippine energy company Aboitiz Power, in the issuance of a landmark climate bond worth P10.7 billion ($225 million) for the Tiwi-MakBan geothermal power facilities.
SyCipLaw Shortlisted in 11 ALB Philippine Law Awards 2016 Categories
4th January 2017SyCipLaw has been shortlisted in eleven categories of the ALB Philippine Law Awards:
SyCipLaw Partner Wins Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Star of the Year
4th January 2017SyCipLaw partner Emmanuel M. Lombos wins Dispute Star of the Year for the Philippine jurisdiction at the Asia-Pacific Dispute Resolution Awards 2016.
SyCipLaw advises Metro Pacific Tollways Development Corporation and Manila North Tollways Corp.
4th January 2017SyCipLaw acted as counsel to Metro Pacific Tollways Development Corporation (MPTDC) in relation to its unsolicited proposal for the design, development, financing, construction, operations and maintenance of the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road.
ALB Philippine Law Awards 2016
4th January 2017SyCipLaw won the Philippine Law Firm of the Year award at the first ALB Philippine Law Awards. The firm was also named Arbitration Law Firm of the Year and Banking and Financial Services Law Firm of the Year.
Hector M. de Leon, Jr. is new SyCipLaw Managing Partner
4th January 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce that Hector M. de Leon, Jr. has been elected as the firm’s managing partner. Mr. de Leon joined SyCipLaw in 1988 and has been a member of the firm’s Executive Committee since 2014.
Legal Developments
SEC ISSUES RULES TO IMPLEMENT BSP CEILINGS ON INTEREST RATES AND OTHER FEES
8th February 2023 Last March 1, 2022, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued its Memorandum Circular No. 3 to implement the ceilings previously imposed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (the Philippine Central Bank or “BSP”) via BSP Circular No. 1133, series of 2021 on interest rates and other fees imposed by financing companies, lending companies, and their online lending platforms.FAQs: RULES ON SUSTAINABLE FINANCE
8th February 2023 BSP Circular No. 1085 defines “sustainable finance” as any form of financial product or service which integrates environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) criteria into business decisions that supports economic growth and provides lasting benefit for both clients and society while reducing pressures on the environment. This also covers green finance which is designed to facilitate the flow of funds towards green economic activities and climate change mitigation and adaptation projects.BSP ADOPTS STANDARD LOAN APPLICATION FORMS
8th February 2023 What is the BSP’s objective in issuing Circular No. 1156 (the Guidelines on the Adoption of the Standard Business Loan Application Form or the “Guidelines”)?BSP AMENDS GUIDELINES ON DIGITAL BANKS
8th February 2023 On September 14, 2022, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (the Philippine Central Bank or “BSP”) issued Circular No. 1154 (the “New Circular”) to amend the guidelines on digital banks previously set out in Circular No. 1105 dated December 2, 2020 and Monetary Board Resolution No. 1536 dated November 26, 2020. Circular 1154 took effect on October 8, 2022, and clarifies the extent to which prudential banking requirements apply to digital banks, and amends the documentary and licensing requirements on the establishment of digital banks.Republic Act No. 11765: An Act Affording More Protection to Consumers of Financial Products and Services
7th June 2022Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act
On May 06, 2022, Republic Act (RA) No. 11765, or the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act, was signed into law. It aims to provide more protection to consumers of financial products and services against abusive and fraudulent practices by strengthening the powers of financial regulators, laying down the duties and responsibilities of financial service providers, and providing financial consumers with additional rights and remedies. The law applies to financial products such as deposit, credit, insurance, pre-need and health maintenance organization (HMO) products, securities, investments, payments, remittances, and other similar products and services, including digital financial products.Philippines: BIR Updates its Procedures for Claiming Tax Treaty Benefits
12th April 2022 In March 2021, the Philippine Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued Revenue Memorandum Order No. 014-21 (the Memorandum), which streamlines the procedures for non-resident corporations and other juridical entities (collectively "non-resident taxpayers") to access Philippine tax treaty benefits.Tax Updates August 2020 (SyCipLaw Tax Issues and Practical Solutions (TIPS) Vol. 2)
22nd October 2020 SyCipLaw’s Tax Department prepared a TIPS bulletin for the month of August.Tax Updates July 2020 (SyCipLaw Tax Issues and Practical Solutions (TIPS) Vol. 1)
20th August 2020 SyCipLaw’s Tax Department has prepared T.I.P.S. covering the following tax issues:Philippine Legislation in the Pipeline: Can They “De-contract” the Economy?
20th August 2020 Analysts predict that the Philippine economy may contract by as high as 9% in the second quarter of 2020. The country’s financial managers and some policymakers are asking that Congress prioritize some key bills — the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE), the Digital Economy Taxation Act, and An Act Ensuring Philippine Financial Industry Resiliency Against the COVID-19 Pandemic – in the hope that these measures can address the impact of the pandemic on business and the economy.Corporate Governance in the Time of COVID-19: Navigating New Horizons
20th August 2020 The COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to change the way that they do business. The fact that the National Capital Region is currently under a Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), and prior to that, was under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) for two months since 16 March 2020, makes it difficult for Philippine domestic corporations to navigate the Philippine business landscape and conduct business as usual. There is a need to adapt, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a number of regulations in an attempt to address certain issues that companies are facing.SyCipLaw’s Doing Business in the Philippines: A General Guide (2020 Update)
20th August 2020 SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s (SyCipLaw) publication about the general guidelines in doing business in the Philippines has been updated. It aims to showcase the Philippines as an attractive venue for business ventures, to guide the businessmen and lawyers alike in their business decision making, and to help investors restart the Philippine economy in connection with the lifting of certain COVID-19-related quarantine restrictions.COVID-19 Legal Briefing: Focus on Litigation and Dispute Resolution
18th May 2020 The enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), declared over many areas in the Philippines, including the island of Luzon where the National Capital Region is located, has caused significant business disruption[1]. As in other jurisdictions, there are concerns that the country will see a rise in contract disputes and foreclosures, and even businesses invoking laws on suspension of payments, rehabilitation, and insolvency. The ECQ has also impacted court proceedings and other dispute resolution processes.COVID-19 Legal Information Briefing: Focus on TMT
18th May 2020 The Philippine Government has issued a slew of resolutions and circulars as part of its response to the COVID 19 pandemic and unsurprisingly, a number of legal and practical issues have beset businesses and persons under the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).[1] Like the rest of the world, the country is bracing itself for a new normal - in the way enterprises are run, services are rendered, everyday tasks are undertaken.Philippine Chapter of Getting the Deal Through: Labour & Employment 2018
21st August 2018
Getting the Deal Through has published the 13th edition of Labour & Employment, which is available in print, as an e-book, and online. The Philippine chapter was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Ronald Mark C. Lleno, with support from senior associate Emmar Benjoe B. Panahon and associate Hans Cedric I. Santos.
9 SyCipLaw Lawyers Recognized in Asialaw Leading Lawyers 2018
21st August 2018Nine of SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan’s lawyers are included in the Asialaw Leading Lawyers 2018. The list features the leading lawyers in 18 practice areas in 24 jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region. Results are based on an extensive survey of in-house counsel and private practitioners.
2018: Insurance regulation in Asia Pacific – Ten things to know about 20 countries
22nd June 2018Norton Rose Fulbright’s 2018 and fifth edition of Insurance regulation in Asia Pacific – Ten things to know about 20 countries is now available. The guide provides an overview and practical checklist of ten common regulatory issues for insurance companies. SyCipLaw partner Hiyasmin H. Lapitan contributed the Philippine chapter.
Philippine Chapter of the International Comparative Legal Guide to: Trade Marks 2018
4th June 2018The International Comparative Legal Guide (ICLG) to: Trade Marks 2018 has been published. The Philippine chapter of the guide was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Enrique T. Manuel and Vida M. Panganiban-Alindogan.
The Legal 500 & The In-House Lawyer Comparative Legal Guide: Philippines: Mergers & Acquisitions
1st June 2018The Legal 500 & The In-House Lawyer Comparative Guide on Mergers & Acquisitions is now available. SyCipLaw partner Franco Aristotle G. Larcina contributed the Philippine chapter.
World Bank Group’s Women, Business and the Law 2018 Report
1st June 2018The World Bank Group’s Women, Business and the Law 2018 report is now finalized and available online. The fifth edition in a series of biennial reports, the publication measures gender equality in the law across 189 economies. It identifies legal obstacles to women who engage in economic activity around the world, encourages the reform of discriminatory laws, and tracks global progress toward achieving gender equality. SyCipLaw partner Leslie C. Dy contributed to the report.
Procuring Infrastructure PPPs 2018
22nd May 2018The World Bank Group’s Procuring Infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships 2018 report is now finalized and available online. The report compiles best practices and offers support to governments around the world to improve the quality of their regulations and to better deliver infrastructure service through public-private partnerships (PPPs).
Multilaw Real Estate Guide for Foreign Investors
7th May 2018Multilaw has released its new digital Real Estate Guide for Foreign Investors, which was launched at the MIPIM global real estate event in Cannes. SyCipLaw partner Benedicto P. Panigbatan contributed the Philippine chapter.
Philippine Chapter of Getting the Deal Through: Vertical Agreements 2018
7th May 2018Getting the Deal Through has published the twelfth edition of Vertical Agreements, which is available in print, as an e-book, and online. The Philippine chapter was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Arlene M. Maneja and Franco Aristotle G. Larcina.
Philippines: Department of Finance Revenue Regulations No. 7-2018 (RR No. 7-2018)
2nd May 2018On January 31, 2018, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez issued RR No. 7-2018 which restored the provision on Notice of Informal Conference as a due process requirement in the issuance of a deficiency tax assessment. RR No. 7-2018 was published in the Manila Bulletin on February 1, 2018 and took effect on February 16, 2018.
The Notice of Informal Conference is a written statement issued by the BIR informing the taxpayer of the discrepancies in the taxpayer’s tax payments for the purpose of conducting an informal conference wherein the taxpayer will be given an opportunity to present his side of the case.
Download and read the complete Tax Bulletin on RR No. 7-2018. The bulletin was authored by SyCipLaw partner Carina C. Laforteza and associate Renz Jeffrey A. Ruiz.
Philippines: Department of Finance Revenue Regulations No. 6-2018 RR No. 6-2018
2nd May 2018On January 19, 2018, Department of Finance (“DOF”) Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez issued Revenue Regulations (“RR”) No. 6-2018 which revoked RR No. 12-2013 and reinstated Section 2.58.5 of RR No. 2-1998, as amended by RR Nos. 14-2002 and 17-2003. Section 2.58.5 of RR No. 2-1998 implements the requirement of withholding of income tax for deductibility of expenses. RR No. 6-2018 was published in the Manila Bulletin on January 23, 2018 and took effect on February 7, 2018.
Data Privacy Update: NPC Advisory Opinion on Consent
2nd May 2018The Philippine National Privacy Commission (NPC), which administers the country’s Data Privacy Act (DPA), has recently made available to the public copies of its advisory opinions. These opinions had been issued in response to various queries regarding the proper application and interpretation of the provisions of the DPA and its implementing rules and regulations.
Philippine Chapter of the International Comparative Legal Guide to: Litigation & Dispute Resolution
6th March 2018
The International Comparative Legal Guide (ICLG) to: Litigation & Dispute Resolution 2018 has been published. The Philippine chapter of the guide was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Ramon G. Songco and Anthony W. Dee.
Lexology Aviation Navigator: Philippines
22nd February 2018The Philippine section of the Lexology Aviation Navigator is now online. The section was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Imelda A. Manguiat and Carina C. Laforteza, with support from senior associate Bhong Paulo A. Macasaet and associate Ma. Luisa D. Manalaysay-Sabornay. The chapter answers key questions on the regulatory framework, air carrier operations, consumer protection and liability, aircraft, accidents, airports, competition issues, dispute resolution, and recent developments and trends.
Philippine Chapter of Getting the Deal Through: Cybersecurity 2018
16th February 2018
The Philippine chapter of the Getting the Deal Through: Cybersecurity 2018 was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Rose Marie M. King-Dominguez, with support from senior associate Ruben P. Acebedo II. The chapter provides answers to key questions on the legal framework, best practice, enforcement, threat detection and reporting, and update and trends.
Getting the Deal Through: Country Focus 2017 – Philippines
13th February 2018 The Philippine chapter of the Getting the Deal Through: Country Focus 2017 was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Hiyasmin H. Lapitan and Franco Aristotle G. Larcina, and associates Anna Teresita A. Marcelo and Michael Trance Joseph M. Nuñez. The chapter provides answers to key questions on the legal landscape of the Philippines, including information on the legal framework, dispute resolution structure, foreign investment and trade, regulators, compliance laws, business operations, employment and intellectual property regulations in the country, among other resources.Getting the Deal Through: Enforcement of Foreign Judgments 2018
3rd January 2018 The Philippine chapter of Getting the Deal Through: Enforcement of Foreign Judgments 2018 was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Ricardo Ma. P.G. Ongkiko and associates Anthony Raphael V. Jacoba and Trisha Beverly C. Flores.The chapter provides expert analysis of key issues relating to the enforcement of foreign judgments. Topics covered include: treaties, regulations and conventions, limitation periods, types of enforceable order, competent courts, defenses, judicial requirements and procedures, significance of the enforcing jurisdiction’s public policy to the enforcement of foreign judgments, awards and enforcement process.ALB: “Arbitration under the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission of the Philippines”
3rd January 2018The October 2017 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes a Philippine regional update contributed by SyCipLaw partner Ronald Mark C. Lleno entitled, “Arbitration under the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission of the Philippines”. The article provides an overview on the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission (CIAC), its jurisdiction over construction disputes in the Philippines, and some of the issues concerning CIAC arbitration.
ALB: “Health is Wealth”
3rd January 2018The October 2017 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes a Philippine regional update contributed by SyCipLaw partner Ronald Mark C. Lleno entitled, “Arbitration under the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission of the Philippines”. The article provides an overview on the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission (CIAC), its jurisdiction over construction disputes in the Philippines, and some of the issues concerning CIAC arbitration.
SyCipLaw TMT Bulletin: “More Philippine Data Privacy Act: Are you Ready for Phase II?”
7th December 2017 Controllers and processors who have completed Phase I registration with the National Privacy Commission (NPC) will now have to gear up for Phase II. Phase II involves providing the NPC certain information on the organization’s compliance with the Data Privacy Act (DPA).The International Comparative Legal Guide to: Patents 2018
20th November 2017The Philippine chapter of the International Comparative Legal Guide to: Patents 2018 was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Enrique T. Manuel and Vida M. Panganiban-Alindogan. The chapter answers key questions on patent enforcement, patent amendment, licensing, patent term extension, patent prosecution and opposition, border control measures, and antitrust laws and inequitable conduct. It also gives an overview on current patent developments in the country.
Getting the Deal Through: Appeals 2017
20th November 2017The Philippine chapter of Getting the Deal Through: Appeals 2017 was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Ramon G. Songco and associate Kathleen Kay A. de Guzman. The chapter provides key insight into the appellate stage of dispute resolution in the Philippines.
IBA Taxes Committee: “Developments in Philippine Tax Laws and Regulations”
27th October 2017The International Bar Association’s (IBA) Taxes Committee published its annual update on tax developments by jurisdiction for 2017. The 2017 update includes a Philippine report by SyCipLaw partner Hiyasmin H. Lapitan entitled “Developments in Philippine Tax Laws and Regulations”. The Philippine report summarizes recent updates related to tax treaty relief, passed-on gross receipts tax, alternative modes of paying taxes, reduction of real property tax on independent power producers, and case law, as well as upcoming tax reform developments.
ALB: “Enforcement Update: Philippine Competition Act”
19th October 2017The August 2017 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes a Philippine regional update by SyCipLaw partner Arlene M. Maneja entitled, “Enforcement Update: Philippine Competition Act”. The article summarizes the administrative, civil and criminal penalties that apply to companies that have yet to comply with the Philippine Competition Act (PCA). The transitional clause of the PCA to enable parties to renegotiate agreements or restructure their businesses to comply with the law expired on August 7, 2017.
CPO: “Philippines: To Be or Not To Be a Data Protection Officer (DPO)”
10th October 2017Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) Magazine, an online publication owned by Data Privacy Asia, featured an article by SyCipLaw partner Rose Marie M. King-Dominguez. Entitled “Philippines: To Be or Not To Be a Data Protection Officer (DPO)”, the article discusses the qualifications and responsibilities of a DPO as outlined in the Philippine Data Privacy Act of 2012. It also outlines difficulties companies may experience in the appointment of a DPO.
ALB: “Guidelines on Related Party Transactions for Insurers in the Philippines”
5th October 2017The July 2017 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes a Philippine regional update by SyCipLaw partner Hiyasmin H. Lapitan and associate Jo Margarette W. Remollo entitled, “Guidelines on Related Party Transactions for Insurers in the Philippines”. The article summarizes the Insurance Commission’s compliance guidelines on related party transactions, as set out in Insurance Circular Letter No. 2017-29. The Circular covers insurers, reinsurers, branch offices of foreign insurers, mutual benefit associations, pre-need companies, and health maintenance organizations and their intermediaries.
The Public-Private Partnership Law Review 3rd Edition
5th October 2017The Philippine chapter of The Public-Private Partnership Law Review 3rd edition was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Marievic G. Ramos-Añonuevo and Arlene M. Maneja. The chapter includes information on public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the Philippines, including general framework, bidding and award procedure, contractual arrangements, financing, and recent developments and decisions.
Philippines Chapter in The Tax Disputes and Litigation Review – Edition 5
16th May 2017The Philippines section of The Tax Disputes and Litigation Review - Edition 5 contains information on commencing disputes, including national and local taxes; courts and tribunals; penalties and remedies; tax claims, including recovering overpaid taxes, challenging administrative decisions, and claimants; costs; alternative dispute resolution; anti-avoidance; double taxation treaties; areas of focus; and outlook and conclusions. The section was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Carina C. Laforteza with support from associate Mark Xavier D. Oyales.
IFLR: “Philippines: Acquiring insurance brokers”
16th May 2017The April issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) includes an international briefing article by SyCipLaw partner Hiyasmin H. Lapitan entitled “Philippines: Acquiring insurance brokers”. The article discusses the new requirement by the Philippine Insurance Commission (IC) for advance approval to acquire a stake in a Philippine corporation that is licensed as an insurance broker or reinsurance broker. This requirement is noted in the IC’s circular letter number 2017-09 dated February 14, 2017, which prescribes guidelines on the documentation requirements for acquiring a domestic insurance or reinsurance broker.
SyCipLaw Tax Bulletin: Philippine BIR Rules on Proper Tax Treatment of Passed-on Gross Receipts Tax
2nd May 2017On June 13, 2016, the then Commissioner of Internal Revenue issued Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 62-2016 purporting to clarify the proper tax treatment of percentage tax or gross receipts tax (GRT) due on transactions covered by Sections 1211 and 1222 of the Tax Code which are shifted through contractual stipulations to borrowers/customers/clients (“passed-on” GRT). Banks, non-bank financial intermediaries performing quasi-banking functions are subject to GRT under Section 121 while financing companies and other financial intermediaries not performing quasi-banking functions are subject to GRT under Section 122. The effectivity of this circular was suspended on July 1, 2016 by the new Commissioner of Internal Revenue. However, on November 15, 2016, the suspension was lifted by RMC No. 127-2016 rendering RMC No. 62-2016 effective immediately.
Philippine Court of Appeals Denies Issuance of Environmental Protection Order Against Mining Company
21st April 2017In a decision issued on March 8, 2017, the Philippine Court of Appeals (CA) denied the petition by NGO Ang Aroroy ay Alagaan, Inc. and certain individuals, for the issuance of a writ of kalikasan against Filminera Resources Corporation, and its directors and officers. The petitioners have claimed that Filminera, which operates in the Philippine province of Masbate, had been causing environmental damage in the conduct of its mining operations in violation of local law, and that a writ of kalikasan should be issued.
SyCipLaw TMT Bulletin: Philippine Central Bank Issues New FinTech Rules
20th March 2017The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) (the Philippine Central Bank) has issued two new circulars that will be of interest to companies engaged in remittance services, e-money, digital currency, and other fintech businesses. Both circulars amend portions of the BSP Manual of Regulations for Non-Bank Financial Institutions.
IFLR: “Philippines: Foreign equity ownership decision”
20th March 2017The March issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) includes an international briefing article by SyCipLaw partner Jose Florante M. Pamfilo entitled “Philippines: Foreign equity ownership decision”. The article discusses the Philippine Supreme Court decision on the case of Roy v. Herbosa (GR no. 207246) to invalidate the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Memorandum Circular no. 8-2013 (MC 8-2013) on the guidelines on compliance with the Filipino-foreign ownership requirements prescribed in the Philippine Constitution and/or existing laws by corporations engaged in nationalized and partly nationalized activities.
Doing Business 2017: Equal Opportunity for All
9th March 2017The World Bank Group has released its Doing Business 2017: Equal Opportunity for All report. This is the 14th in an annual series of reports providing objective measures of business regulations and their enforcement in 190 economies. The report focuses on measuring regulations affecting 11 areas: starting a business, dealing with construction permits, getting electricity, registering property, getting credit, protecting minority investors, paying taxes, trading across borders, enforcing contracts, resolving insolvency, and labor market regulation.
IFLR: “Philippines: Promoting foreign investment”
6th March 2017The February issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) includes an international briefing article by SyCipLaw partner Aaron Roi B. Riturban entitled “Philippines: Promoting foreign investment”. The article focuses on Republic Act no. 10881, which lifts the foreign investment limitations found in laws governing adjustment companies, lending companies, financing companies, and investment houses. Read the article online at the IFLR website.
Enabling the Business of Agriculture 2017
22nd February 2017The World Bank Group has released Enabling the Business of Agriculture 2017. The report presents data on legal barriers for farmers, entrepreneurs and businesses operating in agriculture in 62 countries and across the topics of land, seed, fertilizer, machinery, water, livestock, finance, markets, transport, and information and communication technology (ICT). SyCipLaw's Rose Marie M. King-Dominguez, Alan C. Fontanosa, Franco Aristotle G. Larcina and Ruben P. Acebedo II contributed to the report.
Geothermal Transparency Guide
17th February 2017SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) contributed the Philippine chapter of Icelandic law firm BBA’s handbook called the Geothermal Transparency Guide. The publication is intended to provide an overview of the legal and regulatory framework governing exploration, exploitation and production of electricity from geothermal resources. The Philippine chapter was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Hector M. de Leon, Jr. and Angel M. Salita, Jr.
The International Capital Markets Review – Edition 6 – Philippine Chapter
1st February 2017The sixth edition of The International Capital Markets Review is already available. The Philippine chapter outlines governing laws, legislative bodies, and recent jurisprudence, and also contains information on recent developments in relevant laws and regulations, especially those affecting debt and equity offerings and those affecting derivatives, securitizations and other structured products. The chapter was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Maria Teresa D. Mercado-Ferrer, senior associate Joan Mae S. To and associate Jo Marianni P. Ocampo.
IFLR: “Philippines: Competition Law Updates”
3rd January 2017The December/January issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) included an international briefing article entitled “Philippines: Competition Law Updates”. The article was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Franco Aristotle G. Larcina and Arlene M. Maneja.
ABA: “Justice Antonio T. Carpio, Supreme Court of the Philippines, on the South China Sea Dispute?
3rd January 2017The Fall 2015 issue of the American Bar Association (ABA) included an International Law News article entitled “Justice Antonio T. Carpio, Supreme Court of the Philippines, on the South China Sea Dispute” contributed by SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) Special Counsel Albert Vincent Y. Yu Chang.
IFLR: “Philippines: Renewable energy projects”
3rd January 2017The July/August issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) included an international briefing article entitled “Renewable energy projects”. The article was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Rafael L. Encarnacion.
ALB: “A Need to Clarify Powers of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority and Local Government Unit
3rd January 2017The August 2016 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) Asia Edition includes a regional update by SyCipLaw partner Maria Teresa Mercado-Ferrer entitled “A Need to Clarify Powers of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority and Local Government Units Relative to Peza-Registered BPO Companies”. The regional update can be found on page 15.
Client Alert: SyCipLaw secures 1st merger clearance from PCC
3rd January 2017The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has issued its first merger clearance under the implementing rules and regulations of the Philippine Competition Act. The clearance was for the proposed acquisition by Sanofi of the CHC business of Boehringer Ingelham. SyCipLaw acted as Philippine antitrust counsel to Sanofi.
Client Alert: New Implementing Rules for Philippine Data Privacy Act
3rd January 2017The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has issued the implementing rules and regulations of the Data Privacy Act of 2012. The rules, promulgated on August 24, 2016, will take effect 15 days from publication in the Official Gazette.
Client Alert: Prohibition on Labor-Only Contracting and the Suspension of Registration of New Contra
3rd January 2017On July 28, 2016, the Department of Labor and Employment (“DOLE”) issued Labor Advisory No 10-2016 (“Advisory”) reiterating the prohibition against labor-only contracting and Department Order No. 162-2016 (“Department Order”) suspending the registration of new applicants as contractors or subcontractors under Department Order No. 18-A (“DO 18-A”).
IFLR: “Philippines: Facilitating Creditor-Debtor Dealings”
3rd January 2017The October issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) included an international briefing article entitled “Facilitating Creditor-Debtor Dealings”. The article was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Russel L. Rodriguez, senior associate John Christian Joy A. Regalado, and associate Jo Margarette W. Remollo.
ALB: “New Implementing Rules for Philippine Data Privacy Act”
3rd January 2017The October 2016 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) includes a regional update article entitled “New Implementing Rules for Philippine Data Privacy Act”, contributed by SyCipLaw partner Rose Marie M. King-Dominguez.
AILA GMS Fall 2016 Digest: Spotlight Interview Series – Focus on the Philippines
3rd January 2017SyCipLaw partner Russel L. Rodriguez contributed to the first Global Migration Section (GMS) Digest of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) year. The interview discussed the practice of immigration in the Philippines, the process of sending employees to the country, qualification of same sex spouses for dependent status, and a hot topic in Philippine immigration.
IFLR: “Philippines: Mining Developments”
3rd January 2017The November issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) included an international briefing article entitled “Mining Developments”. The article was contributed by SyCipLaw partner .
ALB: “Single Entry Approach: Mandatory Conciliation and Mediation of Labor Disputes”
3rd January 2017The July 2016 issue of the Asian Legal Business (ALB) Asia Edition included a regional update article entitled “Single Entry Approach: Mandatory Conciliation and Mediation of Labor Disputes”, contributed by SyCipLaw partner Marianne M. Miguel and SyCipLaw Associate Mary Grace L. Javier.
Employment & Immigration Update January – December 2016
3rd January 2017The Employment & Immigration Update Vol. XIV includes the following articles:
- Implications of the Prohibition Against Labor-Only Contracting and Suspension of Registration of New Applicants for Contractors of Sub-Contractors
- Anti-Age Discrimination in Employment Act
- Single Entry Approach
- Further Amendments to the 2011 NLRC Rules of Procedure
- Seafarer’s Protection Act
- Republic Act 10741
Getting the Deal Through: Aviation Finance & Leasing 2016
3rd January 2017The Philippine section of Getting the Deal Through: Aviation Finance & Leasing 2015 was contributed by SyCipLaw senior associate Bhong Paulo A. Macasaet with associates Aldous Benjamin C. Camiso, Diana S. Gervacio, and Maricar G. Ramos. The section talks about the laws and regulation of Aviation Finance and Leasing in the Philippines, Title Transfer, Registration of Aircraft Ownership and Lease Interests, Security, Enforcement Measures, Taxes and Payment Restrictions, Insurance and Reinsurance, and Update and Trends.
The International Comparative Legal Guide to: Patents 2017
3rd January 2017The Philippine chapter of The International Comparative Legal Guide to: Patents 2017 was contributed by SyCipLaw partners Enrique T. Manuel and Vida M. Panganiban-Alindogan. Mr. Manuel heads the firm’s Intellectual Property department. The chapter includes information on patent enforcement, patent amendment, licensing, patent term extension, patent prosecution and opposition, border control measures, Antitrust Law and inequitable conduct, and current developments.
IFLR: “Philippines: Promoting Foreign Investment”
3rd January 2017The September issue of the International Financial Law Review (IFLR) included an international briefing article entitled “Promoting Foreign Investment”. The article was contributed by SyCipLaw partner Carina C. Laforteza and associate Lito Paolo T. Martin II.
Getting the Deal Through: Islamic Finance & Markets 2017
3rd January 2017The 2017 edition of Getting the Deal Through: Islamic Finance & Markets features SyCipLaw Of Counsel Mia G. Gentugaya as contributing editor. SyCipLaw Partner Amer Hussein N. Mambuay contributed the Philippine section.