A robust performer in both local and cross-border financings, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría added several new clients to its roster over the past year, including Banco Santander and Societé de Promotion et de Participacion pour la Cooperation Economique (Proparco). The group’s ability to draw on its top-tier projects practice is a significant differentiator and it has a strong record in project finance (particularly in the infrastructure space), as well as for corporate lending and acquisition finance. High-profile specialist Juan Fernando Gaviria excels in project finance and corporate lending; he recently spearheaded the team’s advice to International Finance Corporation (IFC) on the granting of a $150m two-tranche loan to Nu Colombia. Hernando Padilla maintains a broad transactional practice spanning banking and finance, capital markets and corporate work. Padilla recently teamed up with the projects group to handle several matters connected to the $906m refinancing of the Rumichaca-Pasto 4G toll-road project, including advising a group of international lenders on a $305m international credit facility, and also advising FDN, Bancolombia and Banco Davivienda on the provision of a $260m local credit facility. The team additionally draws on the senior experience of Claudia Barrero, whose diverse focus encompasses corporate, banking, capital markets and private client law, and corporate and finance partner Camilo Ballesteros. Impressive co-ordinating associate Daniela Mejia, is also recommended. Principal associate Paula Buriticá left the firm in May 2022.
Juan Fernando Gaviria; Hernando Padilla; Claudia Barrero
Testimonials
‘The team is capable of perfectly understanding the structure of our company, being able to negotiate any issue from our perspective as necessary, without us having to explain the business details.’
‘The team led by Juan Fernando Gaviria is wonderful. We highly value its practicality. It is capable of being impartial in any discussion and always makes weighty arguments.’
‘It is a very committed team, always available to the client. It is also a team with a high technical level and great abilities when negotiating.’
‘Lawyers are very committed to business and available at all times.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs
JP Morgan
Bancolombia
Banco Davivienda
Banco Santander
Credit Suisse, Cayman Islands Branch
Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional
Societé de Promotion et de Participacion pour la Cooperation Economique (Proparco)
QMC Telecom Group
Deutsche Bank
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Interamerican Development Bank (IDB)
Banco de Desarrollo de América Latina (CAF)
Work highlights
Advised the joint bookrunners and initial purchasers (Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan), as well as the lenders (JP Morgan Chase Bank, MUFG, SMBC, Société Générale, CACIB, Siemens Financial Services, FDN, Bancolombia, and Banco Davivienda), on the $906m refinancing of the Rumichaca-Pasto 4G toll-road project.
Acted for Cititrust Colombia —as local administrative agent, administrative agent of the liquidity credit, and collateral agent— in the $906m refinancing of the Rumichaca-Pasto 4G toll-road project.
Acted as Colombian Counsel to International Finance Corporation (IFC) in the granting of a two-tranche loan to Nu Colombia, totalling approximately $150m.
Ranking among Colombia’s most dominant corporate practices, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría earns plaudits for its ‘specialised lawyers committed to corporate issues’. The international-facing group combines a formidably deep domestic bench with a strong regional network that takes in offices in Chile and Peru; it also benefits from platforms in Europe through its partnership with Iberian powerhouse, Uría Menéndez. Despite being managing partner, M&A heavyweight Martín Acero remains highly sought after by sources for his ‘personalised attention’; he recently advised Ferro and Gema de Inversiones on the acquisition of a 17.64% stake of Hojalata y Laminados. Claudia Barrero is also a go-to corporate specialist and recently teamed up with the firm’s Peru and Chile offices to advise Latam company, Quelaris Internacional, on its acquisition by IMCD Group. In another multi-jurisdictional highlight, Felipe Cuberos advised Inversiones Kaufmann on the acquisition of the Mercedes Benz truck and bus division in Colombia from Daimler. Other key partners include: Juan Carlos Rocha, who blends strength in corporate and real estate matters; Hernando Padilla, who sits in the banking, capital markets and corporate practices; and up-and-coming corporate and restructuring specialist Nicolás Tirado, who recently advised Kaufmann Ventures on the seed round it led in Colombian start-up, Velocity-X. Among the group’s sizeable band of associates, principals Luz María Mercado, Juan José Castaño, David Beltrán and Juan Guillermo Nur all stand out for their broad corporate and M&A activity. Senior associates Paula Buriticá and Alejandro Medina left in May 2022 and November 2022, respectively.
Martín Acero; Juan Carlos Rocha; Claudia Barrero; Felipe Cuberos; Hernando Padilla; Nicolás Tirado
Testimonials
‘It is very important to have specialised lawyers committed to corporate issues and company reorganisation processes, who have all the resources (lawyers, tax experts, etc.), so that they can offer their customers a comprehensive service, as is the case with PPU.’
‘The team’s approach to clients is agile, responsive, and due to its way of working as a team, allows relevant issues to have direct line of contact with the heads of the area, who are aware of the development of the advice they have provided to us.’
‘The corporate and M&A team adds value through its partners’ special knowledge of the culture and ways of doing business in China; knowledge that, as our parent company is based in China, represents an invaluable comparative advantage over other law firms.’
‘Martín Acero provides personalised attention, obviously accompanied by his team, and gives us greater reliability in all aspects of the process. We highlight the personal and professional qualities of Mr Acero, his knowledge and management of the issues, as well as his professionalism.’
‘Nicolás Tirado, is effective, agile and, as a result, the entry of our company into the country was obtained in record time.’
‘We highlight the team for its extensive knowledge of the legislation but also for its ability to act strategically with risk mitigation. Lawyers are extremely technically qualified with extensive business knowledge. We consider PPU as a business partner of extreme relevance for the continuity of our local business.’
‘In terms of innovation, PPU has collaborated in making our contracts more accessible to our clients, ensuring legal regularity. It also supports us with simplified due diligence for greater business security, risk mapping and rapid action.’
‘PPU lawyers are differentiated by strengths such as: knowledge of the business; ability to quickly assess risks in an initial look at the cases; ability to work closely with the client’s business and then act as if they were inside the business; and extremely competent and available for support.’
Key clients
Alpha Capital and Vive Créditos Kusida
Siemens
Quelaris Internacional
United Parcel Service Co (UPS)
Talma Servicios Aeroportuarios
Fondo de Capital Privado Colombian Infrastructure Equity Fund
Burger King Corporation
Ferro Limited and Gema de Inversiones
Grupo Energía Bogotá
Pepsico Alimentos
HPX Corporation
Alpha Holding
Cititrust Colombia
Nestlé
Grupo Argos
Alpha Holding
Goldman Sachs & Co
Fondo de Capital Privado CIEF
Inversiones Kaufmann
Work highlights
Advised Kaufmann Ventures (Güil) on the seed round it led in the Colombian start-up, Velocity-X.
Acted as Colombian Counsel to Alpha Capital and Vive Créditos Kusida on the sale of their payroll loans portfolio, and other assets, to CFG Partners Colombia.
Advised Inversiones Kaufmann on the acquisition of the Mercedes Benz truck and bus division in Colombia from Daimler.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría secures strong feedback for its business-oriented approach and one source asserts that the team ‘is not only expert in the legal issues’ but that it also ‘gets to know and understand the client’s business’. Among its other key attributes, the team also garners praise for its lawyers ‘excellent professional and personal qualities’. Through its extensive international platform, which additionally benefits from the firm’s formal partnership with Uría Menéndez, the dispute resolution group is well-positioned to advise local and multinational clients on cross-border cases — it is also frequently appointed to handle complex domestic instructions. A 35-year veteran in dispute resolution, Héctor Hernández co-heads the department and his practice encompasses the full range of judicial and arbitral proceedings. Fellow co-head Julio César González also maintains a broad disputes focus, with particular expertise in civil procedural law and domestic and international arbitration; he recently represented Deere & Co and John Deere Thibodaux before the Supreme Court in a dispute stemming from the termination of a distribution agreement. The team also benefits from an experienced second line of associates including principals Juan Sebastián Arias, who is dual-qualified in Colombia and New York; Santiago Cruz Mantilla, who demonstrates ‘strategic and agile vision’; and Alejandra Gómez, who brings experience in administrative, civil, family, and commercial litigation as well as arbitration. Former principal associate Mario Pérez left in May 2023. Since publication, Arias has been raised to the partnership - effective as of December 2023.
‘The PPU team is composed of lawyers at various levels of seniority and has the necessary number of lawyers to handle complex cases, which is very useful compared to other practices.’
‘The PPU team is made up of lawyers with excellent professional and personal qualities. They have extensive legal knowledge and extensive experience in litigation of all kinds.’
‘Compared to other firms, PPU’s litigation team has a transparent practice that adheres to the ethical and disciplinary codes of the profession. They have very good response times and its deliverables are always impeccable.’
‘PPU has a team that is not only expert in the legal issues it handles, but that also possesses sufficient skills to immerse itself in the operation of the client in a short time. The team gets to know and understand the client’s business, adjusting and designing its advice in a more appropriate and efficient way.’
‘Julio César González and Santiago Cruz Mantilla both demonstrate strategic and agile vision.’
Key clients
Huawei Technologies Colombia
CFMoto Pasión por Colombia
Megger Group
Cárdenas Marketing Network
Thule
Odín Grupo de Energía (in reorganización)
Biomax Biocombustibles
Zipasabana
Centro Comercial Santafe Propiedad Horizontal
Urbinar (in liquidation)
Work highlights
Representing Deere & Co and John Deere Thibodaux before the Supreme Court in legal proceedings derived from the termination of a distribution agreement.
Acting for CI La Samaria in nullity proceedings against the Colombian National Natural Parks’ Authority seeking the annulment of a resolution that ordered the shutdown of a production facility and imposed a fine.
Advising Huawei Technology Colombia on all cases concerning consumer protection law regarding the sales of its devices in Colombia.
‘At the forefront of all trends’, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s team is valued by sources for its ‘knowledge and experience in the energy sector’. The comprehensive practice handles the full scope of transactional, regulatory and contentious work, with the ability to lean on other specialists from across the full-service firm to resource large-scale and cross-practice matters. Department head Sandra Manrique ‘possesses great judgment and has very good negotiation skills’ and is particularly well versed in oil-and-gas, and mining-related issues. In terms of the former, Manrique has been advising Shell Exploration & Production Colombia on various regulatory and commercial matters, while on the mining side she is providing regulatory advice to Gramalote Colombia on the planning and development of its projects. The team also fields an impressive group of experienced associates, including principal of the energy, mining and natural resources department, Juan Pablo Gutiérrez (who attracts praise for being ‘very transparent in his advice about what can or cannot be done'), and Mateo Sinisterra, who oversee the power and mining teams, respectively. Former associate director of the hydrocarbons unit, Johanna Cajigas, left the firm in May 2023.
‘The team supports us on the day-to-day issues of a marketer. It understands that our relationship is more of a marathon than a sprint. In this sense, the fee proposals are designed to preserve the relationship and to be able to work together. It is a very good team that knows the energy industry in depth.’
‘Associate Juan Pablo Gutiérrez is an excellent professional. Very transparent in his advice about what can or cannot be done. Also, very timely in his responses.’
‘We value the team for its knowledge and experience in the energy sector, quick responses, appropriate and accurate criteria and understanding of client needs.’
‘Sandra Manrique has a lot of experience in the energy sector. She is assertive, fast, possesses great judgment and has very good negotiation skills.’
‘Associate Juan Pablo Gutiérrez knows the sector, provides quick responses and demonstrates good judgment. He understands the client’s needs very well.’
‘Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is a firm with the highest standards and is at the forefront of all trends.’
‘They are the best advisors in oil and gas in the country. They are remarkably skilled, particularly Sandra Manrique and associate Johanna Cajigas, who are the best.’
Key clients
Shell Exploration & Production Colombia
Ingredion
Oleoducto Bicentenario
Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales
Entoria Energy Colombia
Trina Solar Colombia
Vitol Energía
Corporación Soluciones Energéticas Integrales
Surtidora de Gas del Caribe Empresa de Servicios Públicos
Cenit Transporte y Logística de Hidrocarburos
CerroMatoso – South32 Energy
Gramalote Colombia
Mineros Aluvial
Ultracem
Minera de Cobre Quebradona
Conexpe
AngloGold Ashanti
Juan Manuel Ruiseco & Cía
Frontier Next
Mineros
Work highlights
Provided ongoing advice to Shell on natural gas market regulatory issues.
Advised Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales on the assignment of the Firm Energy Obligations (OEFs) of several power generation plants, including connection contracts with the grid operator.
Advised Entoria on the construction of several power generation and self-generation plants with non-conventional renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s environmental law team ‘embodies professionalism, commitment and experience’, according to satisfied clients. The group strikes a balance between regulatory, transactional support, and contentious work, with the ability to support clients at every stage of the environmental law process. In a precedent-setting matter, the group recently represented Grupo Prodeco on the termination of a project’s mining title, including the closing of environmental licences and authorisations with the environmental authority, which was a procedure not covered by Colombian regulations. Go-to environmental specialist Luis Fernando Macías led the firm’s advice to Grupo Prodeco, with support from talented principal associate Alexander Acosta. The group also includes principal associate Iván Páez, who is highlighted as ‘an expert in environmental matters’, and senior associate María Alejandra Gómez, who is noted for her ‘extensive knowledge of current environmental regulations’. Since publication, Páez has been promoted to practice director – effective as of December 2023.
‘The PPU team embodies professionalism, commitment and experience, among other virtues. Therefore, its work for our company is remarkable and we prefer it over other firms for this reason.’
‘The team demonstrates its commitment to legal issues that need to be resolved urgently by always being available for inquiries. Associate María Alejandra Gómez and Luis Fernando Macías have extensive knowledge of current environmental regulations, which is available to us as clients at all times.’
‘Associate Ivan Paez is an expert in environmental matters, who is always willing to serve clients, issuing correct and in-depth advice on issues submitted for his consideration. His willingness and advice on all matters entrusted to him is incredible. An exceptional person and an invaluable professional.’
‘We value the team for its lawyers’ kindness and disposition to support the client, especially associate Alexander Acosta.’
Key clients
Mansarovar Energy Colombia
Concesionaria Vial del Oriente
Grupo Prodeco
Interconexión Eléctrica (ISA)
Sociedad Aeroportuaria de la Costa (SACSA)
Concesionaria Férrea de Occidente (CFRO)
Inversiones Alcabama
Almacenes Éxito
ALO Sur
Opain
Manufacturas Eliot
Bayer
Colinagro
Work highlights
Advised Grupo Prodeco on the termination of a project’s mining title, including the closing of environmental licences and authorisations with the environmental authority.
Advised Interconexión Eléctrica (ISA) on modifications to the environmental licences of its power transmission projects.
Advised ALO Sur on environmental strategy concerning the development and maintenance of the Avenida Longitudinal de Occidente – Tramo Sur highway project.
Noted for its ‘high technical level and great negotiation skills’, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría fields a full-spectrum projects practice that is composed of lawyers specialised in public procurement processes, public law, infrastructure and project finance. The group acts for an impressive roster of domestic and multinational clients, with experience in representing the full chain of industry stakeholders, from construction companies and government entities, through to major global lenders and institutional investors. Widely acknowledged as a leader in his field, Jorge Di Terlizzi’s broad infrastructure and projects experience encompasses roads, telecoms, energy, airports, and ports, among other spheres. Di Terlizzi co-heads the group alongside project finance expert Juan Fernando Gaviria, corporate and finance specialist Hernando Padilla, and next-generation projects and infrastructure partner Carlos Padilla. Projects and infrastructure associate Camilo Forero is also noted for his focus on state contracting and litigation.
Jorge Di Terlizzi; Juan Fernando Gaviria; Hernando Padilla; Carlos Padilla
Testimonials
‘PPU is an ally characterised by its great competitiveness with other big-name firms. It houses a complete and specialised team — both in projects and in other areas — and it provides comprehensive service through physical and technological means.’
‘It fully meets our expectations as clients; it leads us to obtain results based on the strategies and leadership of its collaborators.’
‘It is a team with a high technical level and great negotiation skills.’
‘PPU lawyers provide security to us as clients, due to their kindness, personal qualities, and knowledge and experience in the different legal issues. Clear examples are illustrious partners, such as Jorge Di Terlizzi, or associate Camilo Forero —professionals in every sense.’
‘Lawyers are always available to answer queries.’
‘We value the team for its kindness, the quality of time delivered to the client, its completion of work with excellent presentation and quality, knowledge of the topics, and permanent availability.’
Key clients
John Laing Group
Grupo Aeroportuario del Caribe
Concesionaria Ruta del Cacao
Cintra Global
Vinci Highways/Vinci Concessions
Constructora Conconcreto
Acciona Concesiones
China Harbour Engineering Corporation
Idestra
Fondo de Capital Privado Colombia Infrastructure Equity Fund
Goldman Sachs
JP Morgan
Banco Santander
Deutsche Bank
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)
SMBC
Societe Generale
Credit Agricole – Ca CiB
Siemens Financial Services
Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional
Bancolombia
Banco Davivienda
Cititrust Colombia Sociedad Fiduciaria
IFC
BID Invest
CAF
Work highlights
Advised the joint bookrunners and initial purchasers (Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan) and the lenders (JPMorgan Chase Bank, MUFG, SMBC, Société Générale, CACIB, Siemens Financial Services, FDN, Bancolombia and Banco Davivienda) on the $906m refinancing of the Rumichaca-Pasto toll-road project.
Provided ongoing advice to Grupo Aeroportuario del Caribe on the concession agreement for Barranquilla International Airport.
Advised China Harbour Engineering Company and Idestra on the unsolicited PPP proposal for the construction of the second tunnel of the “La Línea Project”.
The tax team at corporate powerhouse Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is ‘creative and makes use of all possible resources’, according to sources. As the third-largest practice in the firm by turnover, the thriving group stands out for its activity across the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious matters with transactional tax — where it routinely teams up with its top-tier corporate unit — standing as a sweet spot. Clients also benefit from its standalone transfer pricing practice, which specialises in advising on cases concerning Chile, Colombia and Peru. Managing partner Martín Acero is distinguished by his focus on tax law, and corporate and M&A work, which uniquely positions him to provide comprehensive advice on transactional tax. Carolina Rozo is sought after for her strength in tax planning, corporate tax structuring, and litigation. Barranquilla office head Héctor Ramírez co-heads the department alongside Acero and Rozo and is noted for his recent activity in cross-border tax matters. At associate level, principals Leonardo Cote and Verónica Barone are names to note.
‘The team is creative and makes use of all possible resources. Lawyers manage a broad level of knowledge of legislation from other countries.’
‘The team seeks the best for its clients. There’s always a solution.’
Key clients
Organización Ardila Lulle
Grupo Energía Bogotá
Cepsa Sucursal Colombia
Procaps
Fiduciaria de Occidente
Jaramillo Mora
Kuehne Nagel
Terranum
Carvajal Propiedades e Inversiones
Auteco and Auteco Mobility
Work highlights
Advised Softys on the design and implementation of the regional transfer-pricing policy, which was drafted to achieve the overall corporate strategy of the multinational group.
Advised Hojalata y Laminados on several matters, including on two separate transactions whereby shares in Hojalata y Laminados — held by other shareholders — were acquired by Ferro.
Advised Grupo Energía de Bogotá on the alternatives, from a corporate and tax point of view, to enable it to create a shared services centre, which would be in charge of rendering several administrative services to the group’s local and international subsidiaries.
The banking, finance and capital markets team at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría has an established track record in advising issuers and underwriters on debt and equity offerings —including flagship IPOs— as well as regulatory issues. Corporate and finance specialist Claudia Barrero is recognised for the breadth of her practice scope and recently led the Colombian aspects of the firm’s cross-office advice to the stock markets of Bogotá, Lima and Santiago in relation to their integration process. Hernando Padilla, who specialises in corporate and capital markets, and Juan Fernando Gaviria, who is an expert in project and corporate finance, co-lead the practice alongside Barrero. At associate level, principal Luz María Mercado and practice coordinator Daniela Mejía provide support. Associate Paula Buriticá left the firm in May 2022. Since research concluded, Mercado has moved in house - effective as of September 2023.
Claudia Barrero; Hernando Padilla; Juan Fernando Gaviria
Key clients
Bolsa de Valores de Colombia
Bolsa de Comercio de Santiago, Bolsa de Valores
Grupo BVL
Fondo de Capital Privado Colombia Infrastructure Equity Fund
Work highlights
A cross-office team advised the stock markets of Bogotá, Lima and Santiago on the integration process of the infrastructure and services of the three entities.
Advised Fondo de Capital Privado Colombia Infrastructure Equity Fund on the private placement of senior secured notes to finance certain share acquisitions.
Highlighted as being ‘very attuned to the needs of multinationals’, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s recent competition roster includes work for leading global corporations such as Visa, Aramco and Mediterranean Shipping Company. The group also stands out for its ability to team up with the wider firm’s top-tier litigation practice to handle contentious competition matters. Among its highlight mandates in this sphere, department head Diego Cardona represented Canacol Energy in an unfair competition case brought by one of its main competitors in the natural gas production market. The team also has strong experience in merger control filings and administrative investigations. Junior associate Natalia Castilla provides support.
‘Competition law has taken on a special significance in business practices, so we must be permanently well advised on these issues. For several years now, the PPU team has always been immediately available for our inquiries and requirements, and we are highly satisfied with their advice.’
‘Diego Cardona provides personalised and diligent attention. The firm is composed of partners with extensive knowledge and excellent human qualities, which greatly facilitates interaction with our organisation.’
‘We value the team for its kindness and closeness. Lawyers are empathetic with the client, they understand the problem and they study the case in detail.’
‘We value Diego Cardona for the quality of his work.’
‘The team is very attuned to the needs of multinationals.’
‘Diego Cardona is very practical and gives clear legal advice. Unlike many lawyers, he is comfortable advising clients in uncertain and changing environments.’
Key clients
Visa International Service Association
Yumbo Limpio
RCN Televisión
Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Cartagena
Canacol Energy
Aramco (Saudi Aramco)
LSF11 Skyscraper HoldCo (MBCC Group)
Grupo Energía Bogotá
Sociedad Aeroportuaria de la Costa
Mediterranean Shipping Company
Work highlights
Advised Visa on the SIC’s preliminary injunction order against the company, following its antitrust investigation into alleged restrictive practices in the market for cross-border transactions.
Represented Yumbo Limpio in the SIC’s investigation into alleged restrictive practices concerning the awarding of the waste management contract in the municipality of Yumbo.
Successfully represented RCN Television in a preliminary investigation by the SIC into the alleged abuse of market power in relation to advertisement time on television.
Lawyers at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría are ‘always attentive to the needs of the case’, according to satisfied clients. The team continues to increase its market share of international arbitration proceedings, where it stands out for its ability to leverage its international offices in Chile and Peru — as well its formal partnership with Iberian firm Uría Menéndez — to secure roles on prominent, cross-border disputes. The ‘supremely attentive’ Héctor Hernández maintains a broad dispute resolution practice, with strong skill sets in both judicial and arbitral disputes. Among his recent work, Hernández has been particularly active in arbitrations concerning the energy and infrastructures spheres of late. Julio César González, who co-heads the dispute resolution group alongside Hernández, also handles a significant volume of arbitration cases. Sources additionally single out principal associates Juan Sebastián Arias (‘very clear in his advice’) and Santiago Cruz Mantilla (‘excellent lawyer’), along with fellow principal Alejandra Gómez. Since publication, Arias has been raised to the partnership - effective as of December 2023.
‘The PPU team is quite competent, clearing up doubts and taking action with the required proactivity and efficiency. As a client, I feel safe and well represented by the team.’
‘The firm’s lawyers have great professionalism, are always attentive to the needs of the case, and always have a strategy to deal with the case.’
‘Associate Juan Sebastián Arias seemed to me very clear in his advice.’
‘We appreciate the team for the quality of its work, promptness and good command of English.’
‘Varied experience in different forms of dispute resolution (domestic litigation, domestic arbitration, international arbitration). Good command of English.’
‘Héctor Hernández is supremely attentive to our affairs, while associates Santiago Cruz Mantilla and Juan Sebastián Arias are excellent lawyers.’
Key clients
Huawei Technologies Colombia
CFMoto Pasión por Colombia
Megger Group
Cárdenas Marketing Network
Thule
Odín Grupo de Energía (in reorganisation)
Biomax Biocombustibles
Zipasabana
Centro Comercial Santafe Propiedad Horizontal
Urbinar (in liquidation)
Work highlights
Represented Canal Extensia in an investment arbitration under ICSID rules, pursuant to the Colombia-Spain BIT.
The ‘innovative and effective’ group at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría added 11 new clients over the past year, including multinationals such as Red Bull Colombia and Beat Rideapp Colombia. The team is well versed across the full spectrum of advisory, transactional support and contentious matters, with notable expertise in complex employment and social security litigation, including cases involving mass terminations. Department head Carolina Porras specialises in labour, social security and immigration law, with strong experience in transactional support and contentious matters. The team also includes associates María José Rondón and Isabella Huertas. In June 2023, associate Mariana Torres left to join Vélez Trujillo Legal.
‘It is a team that knows the area of practice quite well and that is committed to the client. In addition to its excellent performance levels, it provides strong client service.’
‘Lawyers stand out for their knowledge, customer service, awareness of the relevant issues, and proactivity in each matter.’
‘The greatest strength of the team is its human and professional quality when it comes to addressing the challenges of our organisation.’
‘It is a team dedicated to providing the best customer service possible. It is positioned as one of the best teams for labour law in Colombia, especially among full-service firms. It provides newsflashes, which are extremely useful and give insight into legislative changes and how they can affect businesses.’
‘The team is comprised primarily of women, led by partner Carolina Porras and her lead associates María José Rondón and Isabella Huertas. They are extremely knowledgeable lawyers with extensive experience in all areas of law, including administrative, judicial and day-to-day consultations.’
‘What makes this practice unique is its combination of experience and technical knowledge, which allows them to provide innovative and effective solutions to their clients.’
‘The firm is very skilled at working as a team, co-ordinating and collaborating with other professionals and experts in different areas to provide comprehensive advice. In general, I believe that the firm compares favourably with other firms, thanks to its personalised and client-oriented approach.’
‘Lawyers are up-to-date on the latest trends and changes in labour laws and regulations, which allows them to offer solid and reliable legal advice. They also understand that each client is unique, which is why they strive to provide high-quality, personalised service that is tailored to each client’s needs.’
Key clients
Alpha Holding
Relx
Trust Law
Alexion Pharma
Red Bull Colombia
Development Alternatives (DAI Global)
Uvi Tech Colombia
Abbott Laboratories de Colombia
Beat Rideapp Colombia
Carco
BRC Ratings – S&P Global Sociedad Calificadora de Valores
Special Tribunal for Peace (JEP)
KPMG Advisory, Tax & Legal
Work highlights
Advised Alpha Holding on employment matters connected to its controlling corporation’s bankruptcy process in the US.
Advised start-up Uvi Tech on compliance with labour law matters, including providing training on collective law.
Advised Elsevier on outsourcing-related employment matters, including transferring its employment contracts.
Lawyers at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría are ‘fast and precise in their responses and analysis’, according to sources. The full-service practice advises on a wide scope of planning and real estate law, from zoning and environmental law issues through to land disposals and acquisitions, and lease agreements. High-profile department head Juan Carlos Rocha is recommended for his ‘innovation and legal creativity’; he is advising Carvajal Propiedades e Inversiones on several transactional and zoning matters regarding real properties located in Bogotá, Yumbo and Cali. Senior associate Jaime Andrés Ramírez D, who is an ‘excellent strategist’, provides support. Senior associate Diana Lozano left the firm in March 2023.
‘The team stands out for its in-depth knowledge of the applicable regulations and developments in jurisprudence, with permanent alerts and updates to clients on the matters that clients are most interested in. The team is well formed and shows a permanent willingness to deal with customer issues.’
‘Juan Carlos Rocha is an excellent lawyer who knows his clients’ business, which allows him to advise with innovation and legal creativity. Associate Jaime Ramírez is an excellent strategist and knowledgeable about real estate and urban planning issues.’
‘The team is led by Juan Carlos Rocha, who is highly respected in the market and possesses extensive knowledge and experience. He is permanently involved in the matters that we entrust to him and is always next to his team during all the consultancies.’
‘The team provides excellent and efficient legal advice, which is tailored to the interests of the client.’
‘A large office that is characterised by its ability to provide — across multiple sectors — all possible legal solutions necessary to clients. In our opinion, Juan Carlos Rocha stands out in the market because, despite his high role in PPU, he continues to serve his clients directly.’
‘The assigned professionals are competent, expert, fast and precise in their responses and analysis, with a high level of knowledge in their subject.’
‘Lawyers stand out for their unique background, their assertiveness in analysis, total dedication to the client and their ability to achieve results, particularly Juan Carlos Rocha.’
Key clients
Carvajal Propiedades e Inversiones
Fondo de Capital Privado Fondo Inmobiliario Colombia (FIC)
Gramalote Colombia
Anglogold Ashanti / Minera de Cobre Quebradona
Grupo Energía Bogotá
Ripley Internacional
Fondo de Inversión Colectiva Inmobiliaria Sirenta
Bavaria & CIA
Uriel Renovables
Alvarez Velez
Work highlights
Advised Bavaria on the acquisition of nine real estate properties where it is developing a new brewery factory in Colombia; the team also advised on the zoning and planning permits required for developing the factory.
Advised Carvajal Propiedades e Inversiones on transactional, real estate and zoning matters concerning the development of many real estate projects around several municipalities in Colombia.
Advised Fondo de Capital Privado Fondo Inmobiliario Colombia (FIC) on agreements for developing offices and retail buildings in Medellín.
The ‘very dynamic team’ at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría maintains an interdisciplinary approach to white-collar crime issues, where it benefits from its ability to lean on the wider full-service firm to provide coverage of contentious and non-contentious matters. On the compliance front, the group advises domestic and multinational corporations on the development of internal compliance and risk prevention programmes. On the white-collar crime side, the team is predominantly known for its representation of victims in criminal matters, although it also acts for defendants. Led jointly by Pamela Alarcón, who focuses exclusively on compliance and criminal law matters, and former Attorney General of the Nation Juan Carlos Forero, the group also draws on the specialist support of associate Armando Lacouture. Associate Andrea Succar left in September 2022.
‘It is a very dynamic team, with lots of knowledge at all levels, organised and familiar with all the issues that we handle. Response times are immediate; lawyers resolve the issues very quickly and provide us with solutions. An excellent work team.’
‘Pamela Alarcón is always available to solve our needs. In addition to being an excellent person, she has an incredible ability to permeate her team with positive management.’
Key clients
Adelante Soluciones Financieras (Addi)
Organización Terpel
Procaps
Diana Corporación
Oxígenos de Colombia
Accenture
Cochlear Colombia
Despegar Colombia
Amadeus TI Group
Sociedad Aeroportuaria de la Costa
Husqvarna Colombia
Tiffany & Co
Carboquímica
Subway Systems Colombia
Compañía Electríca Sochagota
CI Acepalma
Plexa
Federación Nacional De Cultivadores De Palma De Aceite (Fedepalma)
Vigia Servicio Especial
Zurich Colombia Seguros
Gramalote
Canal Extensia América
Work highlights
Advised the five companies that comprise the Diana Group on compliance matters, and also represented the clients, as victims, in a criminal case concerning crimes against the company’s assets.
Represented Praxair Group subsidiary Oxigenos de Colombia (as a victim) in criminal proceedings initiated against a criminal group dedicated to stealing medical oxygen tanks and other medical devices.
Advised Accenture on risk prevention issues and ongoing compliance matters.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s IP group is lauded for providing ‘fast, concrete, and business-oriented solutions’. The team leverages the firm’s platforms in Chile and Peru, as well as its association with international heavyweight Uría Menéndez, to position itself as a regional hub for IP matters, with a focus on Andean countries. Practice head Mauricio Patiño combines strength in IP, life sciences, competition and dispute resolution to support clients on a broad range of patent and trade mark matters. The team also includes IP and life sciences specialist Gerardo Flórez, and ‘great negotiator’ Camilo Suárez — who were promoted to partner and director respectively in January 2023.
Practice head(s):
Mauricio Patiño; Gerardo Flórez
Testimonials
‘I believe that PPU’s intellectual property practice area is unique in that it provides added value and is always willing to go the extra mile for clients.’
‘Director Camilo Suárez is a lawyer with extensive technical knowledge. He is a great negotiator with great writing skills. The advice provided by Camilo has made it possible to fully comply with the company’s objectives. Complies satisfactorily with each of the tasks assigned.’
‘We value the team’s quick responses and impeccable customer service. Excellent approach to the problem. Willingness to negotiate rates and adjust to customer needs. Extensive knowledge of the subjects covered, from the point of view of regulation and background.’
‘Lawyers are attentive and listen carefully to needs. Director Camilo Suárez and associate María Luisa Santacruz are always willing to assist us, proposing fast, concrete, and business-oriented solutions, which provide for excellent legal strategies for the defence, expansion and maintenance of our IP portfolio.’
‘Lawyers are excellent business allies articulating IP issues. Mauricio Patiño and Gerardo Florez provide excellent support.’
Key clients
La Rayada
Societé Des Produits Nestlé
Kirkland & Ellis LLP / Delta Airlines
Mercado Libre
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosatti / Spotify
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
Moderna
Despegar Colombia
Ferrari
Compañía Colombiana de Cerámica
Work highlights
Advised Delta Airlines on a trade mark conflict relating to trade marks registered or applied for by Marriott Worldwide Corporation in two jurisdictions (Colombia and Peru) in the context of a worldwide case.
Advised Cardenas Marketing Network on IP matters concerning the construction of ticketing service platform “ARENA BOGOTA”.
Advised RCN Televisión on a worldwide trade mark registration programme for TV and movie production, broadcasting, and streaming services in 169 countries.
The multidisciplinary international trade practice at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is distinguished by its ability to draw on the wider firm’s top-tier tax offering to pack a punch in customs tax planning. Other strong skill sets include free trade zones, foreign exchange law and customs-related litigation. The department is led jointly by managing partner and prominent tax expert Martín Acero, together with tax specialist Carolina Rozo, and director of the Barranquilla office, Héctor Ramírez, who also focuses on tax law.
Practice head(s):
Martín Acero; Carolina Rozo; Héctor Ramírez
Key clients
Cartones América
Under Armour
United Parcel Service of America
Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Cartagena
Manufacturas Eliot
Coliseo Live
Alpha Capital
Gestión de Servicios Globales
Builder Commerce Colombia
Bacardí Martini
Work highlights
Advised Cartones América (and its shareholders located abroad), on investments in foreign companies, and on structuring a flow of funds from Colombia under the foreign exchange control regime.
Advised Gestión de Servicios Globales on designing and implementing two business models to support the commercial relationships between a company located in Colombian customs territory and its economically related party located in a Colombian free trade zone.
Advised Under Armour on the creation of an international trade structure through which the client could avoid the apprehension of certain shipments by the Colombian customs authority.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría advises its life sciences industry clients on a range of IP and regulatory matters, including IP portfolio management, sanitary matters and consumer protection law. Practice co-head Mauricio Patiño is an IP specialist with complementary expertise in competition, TMT and dispute resolution. Fellow co-head Gerardo Flórez, who was elevated to the partnership in January 2023, is noted for his experience in regulatory and advertising law issues. Camilo Suárez, who was promoted to director in January 2023, provides IP-focused support.
Practice head(s):
Mauricio Patiño; Gerado Flórez
Key clients
McDermott Will & Emery / Google
Brinsa
Skeletal Dynamics
Inversiones Glu Vape
Amgen USA
Dasa Diagnostics
Plastilene
Productos Ramos
Work highlights
Advised Amgen on various regulatory matters, including on the import of medical devices.
Advised Compañía Colombiana De Cerámica on the judicial defence of 25 industrial designs.
Advised Brinsa on the management of its portfolio for foodstuffs and cleaning products, including modifications, renewals, and new applications.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s public law practice is closely aligned to its projects offering, with the group noted for its handling of public law-related transactions, including PPP contracts and purchase agreements. The team also advises on public procurement and contentious matters. Infrastructure and projects specialist Jorge Di Terlizzi co-heads the department alongside Carlos Padilla, who specialises in infrastructure, PPP and IT projects. Key associates include Camilo Forero, who advises on infrastructure, projects and public law; and Santiago Cruz, who focuses on dispute resolution.
Practice head(s):
Jorge Di Terlizzi; Carlos Padilla
Testimonials
‘They have an interdisciplinary team that, in addition to public law, can provide support on any area of law that a company requires. Great commitment to work and depth in the results.’
‘The relationship with the client is very good, based on respect, timely attention and depth of knowledge of the issues.’
‘We recommend the group for its transfer of knowledge to the client in an empathetic and effective way. Also for its timely advice and strategy development.’
Key clients
China Harbour Engineering Corporation
Idestra
Grupo Aeroportuario del Caribe (Barranquilla Airport Concessionaire)
Sociedad Aeroportuaria del Caribe (Cartagena Airport Concessionaire)
Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Barranquilla
Concesionaria Ruta del Cacao
Cintra Infraestructuras and Cintra Global
Vinci Highways and Vinci Concessions
Constructora Conconcreto
Acciona Concesiones
Mercantil Colpatria
Servicios Postales Nacionales
Work highlights
Advising Grupo Aeroportuario del Caribe on the performance of the concession agreement of Barranquilla International Airport, including on the negotiation of the rebalancing of the concession agreement due to the negative economic effects caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Advising Sociedad Aeroportuaria del Caribe on the performance of the concession agreement of the Cartagena International Airport, including on the extension of the concession agreement term.
Advising China Harbour Engineering Company on the unsolicited PPP proposal for the construction of the second tunnel of the La Línea Project, among the largest road tunnels in Colombia.
The three-lawyer-strong insurance group at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is distinguished by its ‘professionalism and extensive knowledge’, according to sources. Led by dedicated insurance counsel Rebeca Herrera, the team can also lean into the wider full-service firm’s corporate and litigation departments to provide broad coverage of both contentious and non-contentious matters. The compact but growing practice added four new clients during 2022/23, including multinational brands Oneglobal Broking and BMS Group.
Practice head(s):
Rebeca Herrera
Testimonials
‘The team that attends to us is very professional and is trained to resolve concerns. Communication is effective, either through emails or calls.’
‘Lawyers are professionals who respond on time and are always available when needed. We highlight Rebecca Herrera.’
‘The insurance team is exceptional; its professionalism and extensive knowledge on the subject stands out. Its advice and actions are quite accurate.’
‘Counsel Rebeca Herrera is an incomparable professional; she has extensive experience and knowledge in the field, her advice is always more than satisfactory.’
‘We highlight the team’s interdisciplinary management in such a way that it allows a comprehensive response to the client’s requests. Excellent levels of service and quality in response.’
‘Lawyers demonstrate good disposition and service and provide clarity in their responses.’
Key clients
Mapfre Colombia Seguros Generales
Protección Agropecuaria Compañía de Seguros
Oneglobal Broking
BMS Group
Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional
Ecopetrol
ACH Colombia
Segurexpo de Colombia (Aseguradora de Crédito y Comercio Exterior0)
XL Insurance Company
Axa XL
Work highlights
Representing Mapfre Colombia Seguros Generales in an international arbitration under a reinsurance agreement.
Advising Protección Agropecuaria Compañía de Seguros (Proagro) on regulatory matters, among other issues.
Advising Oneglobal Broking (in several Latin American countries and in the USA), regarding its registration and incorporation as a reinsurance and insurance broker.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s multidisciplinary practice is highly active in representing technology and media companies in transactional and regulatory matters. The group also advises clients from a diverse range of industry sectors on data privacy and consumer protection-related issues. The team is led jointly by corporate heavyweight Martín Acero; competition and TMT partner Diego Cardona; and IP and regulatory specialist Mauricio Patiño.
Practice head(s):
Martín Acero; Diego Cardona; Mauricio Patiño
Testimonials
‘The team has extensive expertise in the area, not only from the perspective of an external advisor, but also with the experience that the team brings from having worked in the public sector that regulates TMT.’
‘We value the team for the availability and sensitivity with which they deal with issues.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs
Visa
Nokia Solutions and Networks Colombia
Whirlpool
RCN Televisión
Livemood
La Rayada
Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Cartagena (SPRC)
Cardenas Marketing Network
Expedia Colombia
Work highlights
Representing Goldman Sachs, as lender, in the financing of one of the largest Colombian fintechs.
Acting for Visa in an ongoing preliminary investigation by the Colombian Competition Authority relating to the market for payment systems in cross-border transactions.
Advising Nokia Solutions and Networks Colombia on various aspects of its operations in Colombia, including data protection and regulatory matters.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría >
Firm Profile
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uria is the first major Ibero-American law firm, with offices in Chile, Colombia and Peru. Uria Menendez also brings to the firm its network of offices.
Areas of practice Banking, finance and capital markets: advises banks on syndicated financing, asset financing and project financing and the development of the innovative financial structures and products, represents underwriters and issuers in the placement of bond and securities in Colombia and abroad.
Competition: antitrust, including investigations by authorities, litigation concerning cartels and abuse of dominance, consultations on M&A operations, settlements, audits on level of compliance and legal reports.
Corporate/M&A: all aspects of corporate law, including business integrations, tax matters, structuring and implementing public tender offers and the acquisition and sale of listed companies, restructurings, national and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, spin-offs and business reorganization proceedings.
Dispute resolution: prevention and resolution of civil and criminal disputes involving complex legal and technical issues for national and international clients spanning a wide range of industries.
Energy, mining and natural resources: highly specialized lawyers provide comprehensive advice on legal matters for the development of projects in different areas such as mining, industrial, energy, corporate, infrastructure and real estate, among others.
Infrastructure and projects: advising companies involved in toll roads and ports and purchasers and sellers; participated as counsel in financing; and on the privatization of public utilities and ports.
Intellectual property/life sciences: all aspects of intellectual property, patents, trademarks, industrial designs, utility models, copyrights, sports and entertainment matters, litigation, unfair competition, pharmaceutical licensing and health registrations.
Labor: litigation, collective bargaining, employee benefits, due diligence and audits, corporate restructuring, immigration, pensions, internal policies, wages and benefits, taxation, health and safety.
Private clients and family: long-term all inclusive legal advice, in accordance with the highest international standards, for business families on the development of estate planning structures.
Public law: long-standing public law department advising a wide range of clients from the private and public sectors, such as governmental entities.
Real estate: shopping mall planning and construction, superstore construction, real estate trusts and leasing, long term lease agreements, due diligence, real estate guarantees, regulatory issues and local permits.
Tax and international trade: structuring domestic and international operations and transactions involving foreign trade, customs and foreign exchange, tax planning, customs consulting and tax litigation.
TMT (technology, media and telecommunications): advising multinational media and technology companies in all their regional legal matters, from software licenses and TV formats to customs matters.
