Setting Up an NGO: A Filipino Guide

Establishing a NGO 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 current regulations to gain official recognition.

Step 1: Choose Your Organization Type
At the start, 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 capital fund of ₱1,000,000.

What You Need for SEC Approval
To successfully file, you must prepare a specific set of papers. As of 2026, the SEC operates through the eSPARC portal for online submissions.

Required Paperwork
Name Verification Slip: Reserve your unique name through the SEC online portal.

The AOI: This outlines your organization’s purpose, principal office address, and the names of the trustees.

Internal Rules: These define the rules of operation, 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 confirming the amount of contributions received.

SEC Registration Requirements for Non Profit Organizations: Step-by-Step
With the requirements prepared, follow these phases:

Phase 1: Online Submission
Submit your notarized constituent documents through the eSPARC system. The SEC will evaluate the application for accuracy.

Settling the Registration Costs
Pay the required filing fees. For a standard non-stock corporation, the fee usually ranges from ₱3,000 to ₱5,000, depending on documentary stamps.

Receiving Your COI
Upon approval, the SEC how to register a non profit organization in the philippines will issue your Certificate of Incorporation. This document proves that your NGO is a legal entity in the Philippines.

Beyond the SEC
There are more steps after SEC approval. To be fully operational, you must:

Register with the BIR: Apply for a Tax Identification Number sec registration requirements for non profit organizations (TIN) and secure a Certificate of Registration (Form 2303).

Seek Tax-Exempt Status: Non-profits are required to apply for exemption. You must file requirements for sec registration of non profit organization a request with the BIR for a Tax Exemption Ruling.

Local Government Permits: Obtain a how to register a non profit organization in the philippines local permit and a Mayor's Business Permit from the city hall where your office is located.

Donee Institution Status: If you want your benefactors to claim tax credits, seek accreditation from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC).

Launching a non-profit is how to register a non profit organization in the philippines a noble undertaking. By meeting these SEC standards, you ensure your organization stands on solid legal ground for years to come.