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Learn more about Doing Business in Quezon
Quezon City, located in Metro Manila, is the most populous city in the Philippines and a major center of commerce, education, government, and innovation. It houses key government offices, large shopping districts, and an increasingly vibrant startup ecosystem, making it an ideal place for launching and scaling business operations.
Total Population 3.1 million |
GDP Contribution ~13% of NCR GDP |
Average GDP Growth ~6.5% annually |
Startup Ecosystem 1,200+ startups |
Average Salary PHP 420,000/year |
Average Office Rent PHP 750–950/m²/month |
Economic Landscape of Quezon
1. Key Economic Indicators
Quezon City contributes significantly to the GDP of Metro Manila. Its economy is driven by sectors such as retail, real estate, IT-BPM, healthcare, and education. The city is home to major commercial centers, government agencies, and a growing base of tech startups. Its well-developed infrastructure and strategic location make it a top choice for both domestic and foreign investors.
2. Major Industries in Quezon
Retail and Commercial Real Estate: Home to some of the largest malls in the country (e.g., SM North EDSA and Trinoma), Quezon City has a strong retail and property development sector.
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): Several IT parks and business centers host BPO companies offering services in customer service, finance, and software development.
Healthcare and Education: Major hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center and universities such as Ateneo de Manila University and UP Diliman contribute to the city’s robust health and education sectors.
Media and Entertainment: Hosting top broadcasting networks like ABS-CBN and GMA Network, Quezon City is also a leading media hub in the Philippines.
Legal Environment for Businesses
1. Company Registration Process
Company Registration Process Businesses in Quezon City must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), acquire a Business Permit from the Quezon City Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), and comply with BIR requirements. Depending on the sector, additional licenses from agencies such as the DTI or FDA may be required. Learn more about our Company Registration services.
2. Corporate Compliance Requirements
In Quezon, businesses are required to follow several compliance measures to operate legally and efficiently. Employers must adhere to the Labor Code of the Philippines particularly in areas concerning employee wages, benefits, working conditions, and termination protocols. Social security contributions must be made regularly to government agencies such as the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Fund, ensuring employees’ welfare and social protection. On the tax side, companies must file the appropriate documents and pay dues to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Quezon local government in a timely manner. Businesses are also subject to environmental and zoning regulations, which are monitored by both national bodies like the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local offices such as the Quezon City Environmental Protection and Waste Management Department. Non-compliance can lead to fines, suspension of permits, or even closure, making it essential for businesses to stay up to date with their obligations. Explore our Accounting and Tax services for comprehensive support.
3. Taxation Overview
Philippines’ taxation system includes several key taxes for businesses:
➤ Corporate Income Tax (CIT): Corporations operating in Quezon are subject to a corporate income tax rate of 25% if their net taxable income exceeds PHP 5 million and their total assets are above PHP 100 million. For smaller corporations not exceeding these thresholds, the rate is reduced to 20%. |
➤ Value-Added Tax (VAT): A 12% VAT applies to the sale of goods, services, and imports. Businesses with annual gross receipts over PHP 3 million must register as VAT taxpayers under the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). |
➤ Local Business Tax (LBT): Quezon imposes a local business tax on enterprises operating within its jurisdiction. The rate depends on the nature of the business and is typically based on gross receipts, ranging from 0.5% to 3% annually. |
➤ Incentives and Exemptions: Businesses registered with investment promotion agencies such as the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) or the Board of Investments (BOI) may qualify for income tax holidays, duty-free importation, and other fiscal incentives. Quezon City also promotes green and tech-driven initiatives, which may benefit from additional local support. |
Political and Regulatory Landscape
1. Government Support for Businesses
Government Support for Businesses Quezon provides business-friendly policies and is a member of the Philippine Business Registry (PBR) for streamlined registration. The local government promotes investment through tax incentives for businesses in key sectors like green tech, health, and education. Our Business Visa services can assist you in leveraging these opportunities.
2. Key Regulations to Consider
Intellectual Property: Businesses in Quezon should ensure their intellectual property such as trademarks and patents is properly registered with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL). This protects your brand and assets from infringement. Ask about our Trademark Registration services to secure your rights.
Labor Laws: Philippine labor laws apply nationwide, including Quezon City, and cover Employment Contracts, working hours, minimum wage, and employee benefits. All companies must comply with the Labor Code and register with the Social Security System (SSS) to ensure their employees receive proper compensation, benefits, and insurance.
Environmental Regulations: Companies operating in Quezon must follow strict environmental guidelines set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). These include regulations on waste management, pollution control, and natural resource conservation. We offer Business Contracts and Compliance Services to help you meet these environmental standards efficiently.
Geographic and Demographic Insights
1. Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Quezon’s trategic position in the northern part of Metro Manila makes it a vital hub for:
➤ Major Road Networks: Quezon City is connected through several major roads such as EDSA, Commonwealth Avenue, and Quezon Avenue, ensuring smooth access to other parts of Metro Manila. |
➤ Public Transport Expansion: Served by MRT-3 and LRT-2, Quezon City is also benefiting from major projects like the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway, enhancing transit efficiency and connectivity. |
➤ Government and Institutional Centers: Home to national government offices such as the Batasang Pambansa and several department headquarters, Quezon City plays a vital role as an administrative hub in the country. |
➤ Technology and Business Hubs: Developments like Eastwood City and UP Technohub have established Quezon City as a key location for IT, BPO, and innovation-focused enterprises. |
➤ Healthcare and Education Facilities: With institutions like St. Luke’s Medical Center and the University of the Philippines Diliman, the city stands out as a leading center for health and education. |
➤ Proximity to NCR Growth Areas: Its location offers easy access to nearby urban centers including Manila, Caloocan, and San Juan, making it attractive for businesses seeking a wide market reach. |
2. Workforce and Urbanization
The city benefits from a vast, skilled, and English-speaking labor pool, supported by prestigious universities like the University of the Philippines Diliman and Ateneo de Manila. Quezon City has rapidly urbanized over the past decade, becoming a magnet for tech parks, BPO centers, and startups. Zones like Eastwood City and UP Technohub have become hotspots for innovation and employment. Real estate development has surged, responding to growing demand for mixed-use spaces. With over 3 million residents, the city’s demographic size also makes it an attractive consumer market for both local and international businesses.
Property Investment in Quezon
1. Renting Property
Quezon presents a dynamic rental market, offering a variety of options for both commercial and residential needs. Key business zones such as Eastwood City, Eton Centris, and Quezon Avenue feature modern office spaces with rental rates typically ranging from PHP 750 to PHP 950 per square meter per month. These areas are attractive due to their accessibility, amenities, and concentration of tech and service companies. For residential rentals, the market includes everything from affordable studio units to premium condominiums. The presence of business parks and schools fuels constant rental demand, ensuring stable occupancy for landlords. Explore our Property Management services to secure your investment.
2. Buying Property
Real estate investment in Quezon continues to rise, particularly in condominiums situated near IT parks, commercial hubs, and major transportation routes. Pre-selling developments offer favorable pricing for early investors, while completed units provide immediate rental income potential. Foreign nationals are permitted to own condominium units, provided foreign ownership in the building does not exceed 40%, in accordance with Philippine law. However, land ownership remains restricted to Filipino citizens or companies with at least 60% Filipino ownership. These legal distinctions are essential for foreigners considering long-term investments in the city. Learn more about our Property Acquisition Services.
3 Success Stories from Quezon
1. SariSuki: SariSuki, a community-based grocery e-commerce platform, was founded in 2021 in Quezon City by Brian Cu, former co-founder of Grab Philippines. The company empowers local resellers (called “Community Leaders”) to sell fresh produce and daily essentials directly to their neighborhoods through a digital platform. Despite being a young startup, SariSuki has grown rapidly, onboarding over 300,000 customers and supporting thousands of resellers across the country. In just two years, the company has raised over $10 million in funding and has become a strong advocate for inclusive digital entrepreneurship in underserved communities.
2. CloudEats: CloudEats, a cloud kitchen startup, was founded in 2019 in Quezon City by Kim Garcia and Rafael Padilla. The company leverages technology to launch and manage multiple food brands entirely online, without physical restaurants. This model quickly proved successful, especially during the pandemic, allowing CloudEats to serve thousands of orders daily. As of 2023, the startup had launched over 50 brands in the Philippines and Vietnam, raised over $14 million in Series A and B funding, and is recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s leading cloud kitchen operators.
3. Edamama: Edamama, an e-commerce platform dedicated to mothers and families, was founded in 2020 in Quezon City by Bela Gupta D’Souza. The platform offers curated products ranging from baby care to household essentials, combined with educational content and community features. In less than three years, Edamama has attracted over 500,000 users and raised $20 million in funding, making it one of the fastest-growing mom-focused startups in Southeast Asia. Its strong emphasis on trust, personalization, and parenting support has set it apart in the competitive Philippine e-commerce landscape.
Future Outlook for Quezon
Economic Forecast and Development Projects: Quezon continues to attract robust investment, with major infrastructure developments such as the MRT-7, the Quezon Central Business District Redevelopment, and various smart city initiatives enhancing urban mobility and boosting the city’s business potential. These efforts are positioning Quezon as a future innovation and education hub in Southeast Asia.
Challenges and Opportunities: While issues like traffic congestion and environmental sustainability remain ongoing challenges, they also create opportunities for businesses focused on sustainable transport, waste management, and renewable energy. With continuous population growth and urban expansion, Quezon presents long-term potential for diverse sectoral investments. Contact us to start your business journey in Quezon today.
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