Registering a non-profit organization in the Philippines is primarily handled by 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 legal personality.
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 complete your application, you must prepare a specific set of documents. As of 2026, the SEC operates through the eSPARC portal for digital applications.
The Checklist
Name Verification Slip: Reserve your desired name through the SEC online portal.
The AOI: This outlines your organization’s purpose, headquarters location, and the names of the trustees.
By-Laws: These define the internal governance, including how meetings are held and how directors are elected.
List of Members and Contributors: A notarized list of the people how to register a non profit organization in the philippines funding the organization.
Treasurer's Affidavit: A sworn statement acknowledging the amount of contributions received.
SEC Registration Requirements for Non Profit Organizations: Step-by-Step
After gathering the paperwork, follow these stages:
Digital Filing
Upload 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 processing charges.
Phase 3: Issuance of Certificate
Upon satisfactory review, the SEC will issue your Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate proves that your NGO is a legal entity in the Philippines.
Beyond the sec registration requirements for non profit organizations SEC
Your journey doesn't end with the SEC. To be fully operational, you must:
Tax Registration: Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and secure a Certificate of Registration (Form 2303).
Seek Tax-Exempt Status: Non-profits are required to apply for exemption. You must submit an application with the BIR for a Tax Exemption Ruling.
Local Government Permits: Obtain a local permit and a Mayor's Business Permit from the city hall where your office is located.
PCNC Accreditation (Optional): If you requirements for sec registration of non profit organization want your benefactors to claim tax credits, seek accreditation from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC).
Launching a non-profit is a sec registration requirements for non profit organizations noble undertaking. By following these steps, you ensure your organization stands on solid sec registration requirements for non profit organizations legal ground for years to come.