Milbank is active in corporate transactions, capital markets and projects, with a particular focus on energy and infrastructure. The team handles high-profile matters across renewable energy, real estate, leisure and hospitality, and global banking. It has been described as a ‘strong, dedicated team experienced in both Philippines M&A and capital markets.’ Leading the team is James Grandolfo, considered ’the dean of the capital markets in the country,’ who is skilled in investments, refinancings and IPOs. Paul Pery brings expertise in corporate and capital markets, with a focus on financial services and debt capital markets. James Murray advises on energy-related projects, while Desiree Woo is noted for her strength in project finance and development. Other notable practitioners include Cesareo Singzon, who frequently provides support on capital markets transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team has the most deal experience in the Philippines and with the broadest list of clients. The team has a very good understanding and knowledge of local regulations and laws.'
‘Jim Grandolfo and Paul Pery have been a fixture in so far as counsel for investment banking deals in the Philippines. Jim has the international knowledge and network, while Paul brings the local touch. The firm, through the leadership of these two, have top-notch talent who bring creativity, thoroughness and gives confidence that you're in good hands when they are the ones working on the transaction.’
‘James Grandolfo is generally considered dean of the capital markets in the country.'
‘Milbank has a strong, dedicated team which is experienced in both Philippine M&A and capital markets.'
‘The partnership of Jim Grandolfo and Paul Pery in the Philippines works extremely well in that they have strong coverage of the market players and a deep understanding of each of their client relationships.'
'Cesareo "Ari" Singzon is one of the best associates in the market and is incredibly useful for both capital markets and M&A.'
Key clients
- HSBC
- UBS
- BPI Capital
- JPMorgan
- Morgan Stanley
- Deutsche Bank
- Barclays
- Goldman Sachs
- Actis LLP
- Okada Manila International, Inc.
- Universal Entertainment Corporation
- Metro Pacific Investments Corporation
Work highlights
Advised BPI Capital Corporation, as sole global coordinator, and BofA Securities, HSBC, J.P. Morgan and UBS, as joint bookrunners, in connection with the issuance of US$500 million 5.00% 5-year notes and US$300 million 5.625% 10-year notes by Bank of the Philippine Islands.
Advising Actis LLP, through a strategic partnership with Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and its subsidiary, Solar Philippines New Energy Corporation, in connection with its US$600 million investment in the Philippines-based Terra Solar Project.
Acted for HSBC and DBS as global coordinators and arrangers in connection with the establishment of a US$2 billion medium term note programme guaranteed by Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc. and the issuance of US$450 million of 9.375% senior guaranteed notes due 2029 under the programme.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Cesareo Singzon
Practice head
James Grandolfo
Other key lawyers
Paul Pery; James Murray; Desiree Woo; Cesareo Singzon