How to Register a Non Profit Organization in the Philippines

Establishing a NGO in the Philippines revolves around the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Whether you are founding 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 sustained 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 documents. As of 2026, the SEC operates through the eSPARC portal for digital applications.

Core Documents Needed
Name Verification Slip: Reserve your desired name through the SEC online portal.

Articles of Incorporation (AOI): This outlines your organization’s purpose, headquarters location, and the names of the incorporators.

By-Laws: These define the management structure, including how meetings are held and how directors are elected.

List of Members and Contributors: A notarized list of the people funding the organization.

Treasurer's Affidavit: requirements for sec registration of non profit organization A sworn statement acknowledging the amount of donations received.

The Registration Process Explained
After gathering the paperwork, follow these phases:

Digital Filing
Upload your notarized constituent documents through the eSPARC system. The SEC will evaluate the application for compliance.

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 certificate proves that your NPO is a legal entity in the Philippines.

Final Steps to Operation
Your journey doesn't end with the SEC. To be fully operational, you must:

Tax Registration: sec registration requirements for non profit organizations Apply for a tax ID 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.

Donee Institution Status: If you want your donors to claim tax credits, seek requirements for sec registration of non profit organization accreditation from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC).

Starting a non-profit is a sec registration requirements for non profit organizations major undertaking. By following these steps, you ensure your organization is built on a how to register a non profit organization in the philippines firm foundation for years to come.