Establishing a non-profit organization 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 current regulations to gain official recognition.
Decide on Your NPO Category
Initially, 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 small donations.
Foundation: This requires a capital fund of ₱1,000,000.
What You Need for SEC Approval
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.
Core Documents Needed
Approved Corporate Name: Reserve your unique name through the SEC online portal.
Articles of Incorporation (AOI): This states your organization’s purpose, principal office address, and the names of the trustees.
Internal Rules: 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 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
Once your documents are ready, follow these steps:
Phase 1: Online Submission
Submit your notarized AOI and By-Laws through the eSPARC system. The SEC will check the application for compliance.
Settling the Registration Costs
Settle the necessary filing fees. For a standard non-stock corporation, the requirements for sec registration of non profit organization 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 confirms that your organization is a registered body how to register a non profit organization in the philippines in the Philippines.
Post-Registration Compliance
There are more steps after SEC approval. To be completely compliant, sec registration requirements for non profit organizations you must:
Tax Registration: Apply for a Tax requirements for sec registration of non profit organization Identification Number (TIN) and apply for a Certificate of Registration (Form 2303).
Apply for Tax Exemption: Non-profits are subject to tax unless exempt. You must file a request with the BIR for a Tax Exemption Ruling.
Mayor's Permit: Obtain a Barangay Clearance and a Business Permit from the LGU where your office is located.
Donee Institution Status: If you want your benefactors to receive tax deductions, seek accreditation from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC).
Setting up a non-profit is a significant undertaking. By meeting these SEC standards, you ensure your organization stands on solid legal ground for years to sec registration requirements for non profit organizations come.