Law Firm in Manila

Manila stands as the financial, governmental, and commercial heart of the Philippines. Its legal and business ecosystem is dynamic but can be complex for foreign entrepreneurs. At Themis Partner, we provide end-to-end corporate legal services in Manila, including company formation, shareholder structuring, contract drafting, and legal due diligence for mergers or acquisitions. We ensure your corporate structure complies with Philippine laws and help you benefit from incentives under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP) through the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI). Our lawyers also advise on foreign equity limitations, licensing needs, and other legal obligations specific to Manila-based entities.

If you’re a foreigner planning to set up a company in Manila, our team will guide you through the incorporation process with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). We assist at every stage, from name reservation to document submission and business permit registration with local government units (LGUs).

Our Manila lawyers assist businesses of all sizes by preparing, reviewing, and localizing contracts in accordance with Philippine legal standards. Whether you need one-time agreements or contract templates, our team ensures full legal compliance with a business-first approach. We handle a wide variety of legal documents including:

Manila imposes defined rules on the employment of foreigners. To legally work in the Philippines, foreign nationals typically require both a valid work visa and an Alien Employment Permit (AEP). Our Manila-based immigration team manages the entire process:

Foreign nationals are restricted from owning land in the Philippines, including in Manila, but they can legally acquire condominium units (provided foreign ownership does not exceed 40% of the total project). Our lawyers assist with thorough due diligence, title verification, and secure transfer procedures at the Registry of Deeds. For long-term occupancy or investment, we also assist with:

Our litigation lawyers in Manila provide strategic legal support for complex and sensitive civil and criminal disputes, including:

We represent clients before the Manila Municipal Trial Court and the Philippine Court of Appeals for a wide range of legal conflicts. We also promote faster and more amicable resolutions through arbitration and mediation aligned with the Philippines’ Judiciary Dispute Resolution (JDR) framework.

Our Manila lawyers are trained in both Philippine and international law. We ensure legal solutions that respect local procedures while aligning with global compliance standards ideal for expatriates, multinational companies, and investors.

We provide clear legal communication in fluent English. Our team explains legal terms in simple language so that you understand your rights, obligations, and options at every step.

Our legal services in Manila follow a fixed-fee approach with no surprise costs. From initial consultation to case resolution, we prioritize fast responses and firm deadlines.

Whether you’re launching a company, investing in property, or resolving a legal issue, we tailor our advice to Manila’s business ecosystem and regulatory landscape, offering legal clarity that supports your long-term goals.

If you’re a foreign investor planning to fully own a company in Manila, applying for BOI (Board of Investments) registration can open the door to 100% foreign ownership. BOI incentives are designed to promote key sectors such as:

We handle the full setup, from choosing the right legal structure and preparing your business plan to BOI interviews.

Businesses registered in Manila are required to comply with local tax rules, including:

Companies in Manila must comply with the 60% Filipino ownership rule unless exempt under BOI/PEZA. We structure legal ownership setups to retain foreign economic rights. We draft shareholder agreements and structure preferred shares to protect foreign stakeholders. Each setup is optimized to comply with Philippine law while aligning with your long-term business goals. Learn more on Foreign Business Ownership.

Explore our full legal and regulatory guide for launching a company in the capital of the Philippines: Doing Business in Manila

As the administrative, financial, and cultural core of the Philippines, Manila offers investors direct access to major government agencies, local headquarters of global banks, and a dense network of professional services. The city’s strategic location and developed infrastructure make it a top entry point for companies setting up in the Philippines.

Key Legal Considerations:

Visit our dedicated page to get insights on setting up legally and strategically in Manila.

From preparing legal documents to securing business permits with the Manila LGU, our team simplifies legal formalities so you can focus on operations. Whether you need help registering a business, applying for PEZA incentives, or finalizing a contract, we’ve got you covered.

1. Free Initial Consultation: Not sure which visa or entity type fits your goals? Book a free legal call with one of our Manila-based lawyers.

2. Office Address and Directions: Our office is conveniently located in Metro Manila. Remote sessions or phone are also available.

3. WhatsApp and Email Options: Contact us through your preferred method. We reply within 24 hours.

With years of experience and a strong track record in Metro Manila, Themis Partner is your go-to legal advisor in the capital. Whether you’re starting a new company, applying for a business visa, drafting a contract, or resolving a dispute, our lawyers will guide you with speed and precision. Explore our legal services in Manila or contact us for a tailored quote today. Maximize your success in Manila with Themis Partner clear legal advice, fast results, and trusted expertise.