Setting up a NGO in the Philippines revolves around the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Whether you are launching a small community group or a large-scale foundation, you must follow the Revised Corporation Code to gain official recognition.
Step 1: Choose Your Organization Type
Before you begin, you must decide if you are forming a non-stock, non-profit corporation or a foundation.
Non-Stock Corporation: Typically funded by membership dues and local contributions.
Foundation: This requires a starting endowment of ₱1,000,000.
Essential SEC Documentation
To successfully file, you must prepare a specific set of requirements. As of 2026, the SEC uses the eSPARC portal for online submissions.
Core Documents Needed
Approved Corporate Name: Reserve your unique name through the SEC online portal.
Articles of Incorporation (AOI): This states your organization’s purpose, headquarters location, and the names of the incorporators.
Internal Rules: These define the management structure, including how meetings are held and how trustees are elected.
List of Members and Contributors: A notarized list of the people starting the organization.
Financial Statement Affidavit: A sworn statement verifying the amount of contributions received.
The Registration Process Explained
After gathering the paperwork, follow these stages:
Digital Filing
Upload requirements for sec registration of non profit organization your notarized constituent documents through the eSPARC system. The SEC will evaluate the application for consistency.
Settling the Registration Costs
Pay the required filing fees. For a standard non-stock corporation, the total usually ranges from ₱3,000 to ₱5,000, depending on legal research fees.
Receiving Your COI
Upon approval, the SEC will issue your Certificate of Incorporation. This paper validates that your NPO is a legal how to register a non profit organization in the philippines entity in the Philippines.
Post-Registration Compliance
There are more steps after SEC approval. To be completely compliant, you must:
Register with the BIR: sec registration requirements for non profit organizations Apply for a tax ID and apply requirements for sec registration of non profit organization for a Certificate of Registration (Form 2303).
Apply for Tax Exemption: Non-profits are not how to register a non profit organization in the philippines automatically exempt. You must submit an application with the BIR for a Tax Exemption Ruling.
Local Government Permits: Obtain a local permit and a Business Permit from the LGU where your office is located.
Donee Institution Status: If you want your donors to claim tax credits, seek accreditation from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC).
Starting a non-profit is a major undertaking. By meeting these SEC standards, you ensure your organization remains compliant with Philippine law for years to come.