SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan > Manila, Philippines > Firm Profile

SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan
SYCIPLAW CENTER, 105 PASEO DE ROXAS
1226 MAKATI CITY
METRO MANILA 1226
Philippines

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

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

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 partnerLeslie 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 ReyesVicente 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 RodriguezRonald 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 & GatmaitanRocky 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

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.

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
DepartmentNameEmailTelephone
Banking, finance and securities Philbert E. Varonapevarona@syciplaw.com
Corporate services Imelda A. Manguiatiamanguiat@syciplaw.com
Intellectual property Vida M. Panganiban-Alindoganvmpanganiban@syciplaw.com
Employment and Immigration Dante T. Pamintuandtpamintuan@syciplaw.com
Litigation Ricardo Ma. PG Ongkikormpgongkiko@syciplaw.com
Special projects Rocky Alejandro L. Reyesralreyes@syciplaw.com
Tax Carina C. Lafortezacclaforteza@syciplaw.com
PhotoNamePositionProfile
Jan Celine Abaño-Ranada photoMs Jan Celine Abaño-RanadaJan Celine C. Abaño-Ranada is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Leah Abutan photoMs Leah AbutanLeah C. Abutan is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.
Rodelle Bolante photoMr Rodelle BolanteRodelle B. Bolante is a member of the firm’s Employment and Immigration…
Cecile Margaret Caro-Selvaggio photoMs Cecile Margaret Caro-SelvaggioMs. Caro-Selvaggio is a special counsel in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Easter Princess Castro photoMs Easter Princess CastroEaster Princess U. Castro is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Il Young Choi photoMr Il Young ChoiIl Young Choi is an associate in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan…
John Paul De Leon photoMr John Paul De LeonJohn Paul V. de Leon is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez…
Hector De Leon, Jr. photoMr Hector De Leon, Jr.Hector M. De Leon, Jr. is SyCipLaw’s managing partner. His practice focuses…
Anthony Dee photoMr Anthony DeeMr. Dee is a partner in Sycip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He has represented…
Miguel Franco Dimayacyac photoMr Miguel Franco DimayacyacMr. Dimayacyac is an associate at SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He is…
Leslie Dy photoMs Leslie DyLeslie C. Dy is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Simeon Ken Ferrer photoMr Simeon Ken FerrerSimeon Ken R. Ferrer is an of counsel in SyCip Salazar Hernandez…
Vicente Gerochi IV photoMr Vicente Gerochi IVVicente D. Gerochi IV has represented Philippine and international banks and multilateral…
Joanna Marie Joson photoMs Joanna Marie JosonJoanna Marie O. Joson is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Rose Marie King-Dominguez photoMs Rose Marie King-DominguezRose Marie M. King-Dominguez is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Carina Laforteza photoMs Carina LafortezaCarina C. Laforteza is a lawyer and a certified public accountant with…
Franco Aristotle Larcina photoMr Franco Aristotle LarcinaMr. Larcina is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He…
Ronald Mark Lleno photoMr Ronald Mark LlenoRonald Mark C. Lleno specializes in litigation and employment law. His practice…
Carlos Roberto Lopez photoMr Carlos Roberto LopezCarlos Roberto Z. Lopez is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Bhong Paulo Macasaet photoMr Bhong Paulo MacasaetBhong Paulo A. Macasaet is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Amer Hussein Mambuay photoMr Amer Hussein MambuayAmer Hussein N. Mambuay is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Arlene Maneja photoMs Arlene ManejaArlene M. Maneja is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan…
Imelda Manguiat photoMs Imelda ManguiatImelda A. Manguiat is a partner in SyCip Salzar Hernandez & Gatmaitan…
Enrique Manuel photoMr Enrique ManuelMr. Manuel has more than 30 years of experience as an IP…
Anna Loraine Mendoza photoMs Anna Loraine MendozaAnna Loraine M. Mendoza is a senior associate of SyCip Salazar Hernandez…
Marianne Miguel photoMs Marianne MiguelMarianne M. Miguel is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Michael Trance Joseph Nuñez photoMr Michael Trance Joseph NuñezMichael Trance Joseph M. Nuñez is an associate at SyCip Salazar Hernandez…
Jose Florante Pamfilo photoMr Jose Florante PamfiloJose Florante M. Pamfilo is a partner in  SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Dante Pamintuan photoMr Dante PamintuanDante T. Pamintuan heads the Employment and Immigration Department of SyCip Salazar…
Vida Panganiban-Alindogan photoMs Vida Panganiban-AlindoganVida M. Panganiban-Alindogan heads the firm’s Intellectual Property Department. Her practice area…
Benedicto Panigbatan photoMr Benedicto PanigbatanBenedicto P. Panigbatan is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Ma. Patricia Paz photoMs Ma. Patricia PazMa. Patricia B. Paz is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Marievic Ramos-Añonuevo photoMs Marievic Ramos-AñonuevoMarievic G. Ramos-Añonuevo has been in law practice for 34 years and…
John Christian Joy Regalado photoMr John Christian Joy RegaladoJohn Regalado is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan. He…
Rocky Alejandro Reyes photoMr Rocky Alejandro ReyesRocky Alejandro L. Reyes heads the firm’s Special Projects Department. He specializes…
Russel Rodriguez photoMr Russel RodriguezRussel L. Rodriguez is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Angel Salita photoMr Angel SalitaAngel M. Salita, Jr. is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Ramon Songco photoMr Ramon SongcoRamon G. Songco is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Nathaniel Andrew Uy photoMr Nathaniel Andrew UyMr. Nathaniel Andrew Uy is a senior associate in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Philbert Varona photoMr Philbert VaronaPhilbert E. Varona is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.…
Maria Viola Vista photoMs Maria Viola VistaMaria Viola B. Vista is a partner in SyCip Salazar Hernandez &…
Number of lawyers : 115
English
Spanish
Japanese
Mandarin
Korean
Filipino
Employment Law Alliance
Multilaw
Pacific Rim Advisory Council
World Law Group
World Services Group
The Interlex Group
Managing Partner : Hector M. De Leon, Jr
Business Development Manager : Marie M. Ingcoco

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

SyCipLaw Corporate Services Bulletin

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

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

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

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

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

SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan (SyCipLaw) is pleased to announce the promotion of eleven Associates to the position of Senior Associates: Eleanor N. BalaquiaoMark Kevin U. DellosaNorberto P. Geraldez, Jr.Anne Katherine P. NavaretteJavierose M. RamirezLoubelle L. RazonRamon I. Rocha, IVNikko Emmanuel D. SilvaApril Gayle U. SollerJericho R. Tiu and Nathaniel Andrew Y. Uy.

SyCipLaw’s rankings in Chambers Asia-Pacific 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

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

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

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

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 PBSP

SyCipLaw Kicks-off 75th Anniversary Celebration with Pasasalamat and Justice VV Mendoza’s Reflection

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 joins PBSP’s ‘Ready for School’

SyCip 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

Asia 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 MP nominated TrustLaw Lawyer of the Year 2018

SyCip 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 is an IAM Patent 1000 Recommended Firm

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

SyCip 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCip 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

SyCip 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

Ricardo 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

SyCipLaw 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”

SyCipLaw’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

SyCip 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

The 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCip 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

SyCip 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

Chambers Global 2018 has ranked SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan as a Band 1 firm in Corporate & Finance and Projects, Infrastructure & Energy.

SyCipLaw supports “Sa Pagbasa, May Pag-asa” Storybook Donation Drive

SyCip 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.


SyCipLaw named Philippine Law Firm of the Year at Chambers Asia-Pacific Awards 2018

SyCip 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.


Canadian Bioenergy Mission to the Philippines

SyCipLaw 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

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

The 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

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

SyCip 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCip 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

SyCip 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

In 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

Asia 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 ContentiousAsia IP Asia’s Leading Trademark Firms

- Patent Prosecution and Patent ContentiousAsia IP Asia’s Leading Patent Firms


SyCipLaw Receives 4 asialaw Asia-Pacific Legal Practice Awards Nominations

SyCip 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

The 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

For 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

SyCip 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

Six 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

SyCip 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

The 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.


SIAC Rules 2016 Roadshow

The 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

SyCip 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

SyCip 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.


Limay Project Recognized as Best Power Deal in the Asia Pacific Region

The 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.


Announcement of New SyCipLaw Partners

SyCip 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

Asialaw 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

Congratulations 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

The 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCip 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCipLaw has been shortlisted in eleven categories of the ALB Philippine Law Awards:


SyCipLaw Partner Wins Asialaw Asia-Pacific Dispute Star of the Year

SyCipLaw 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.

SyCipLaw 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

SyCipLaw 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

SyCip 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.


ALB: “SyCip Sweeps First-Ever ALB Philippine Law Awards”

The 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.