Ready to start your Philippine business? The first step is picking a name that’s unique and meets SEC guidelines. Use our Philippines Company Name Search tool to verify availability instantly.

Disclaimer: This tool provides a preliminary check for the Philippines company name availability. Final approval of your company name in the Philippines depends on the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Using this tool does not guarantee your proposed name will be approved.

Mandatory Naming Guidelines by the SEC

Uniqueness

The name must not be identical or confusingly similar to existing registered names. Performing a Philippines business name search helps prevent conflicts before registration.

Restricted or Prohibited Terms

Avoid using terms like “Philippine,” “National,” or “Republic” unless authorized, as well as any terms that imply illegal or unethical activity. Misleading names about your business nature are also prohibited.

Language and Characters

Names must be in English, Filipino, or a combination, using standard letters and numbers only. Avoid symbols or special characters that could make the name invalid.

Clarity and Relevance

Choose a name that reflects your business activities and is easy to understand. Avoid generic or overly complicated names to strengthen your brand identity and simplify future Philippines business entity searches.

The correct legal suffix is necessary to ensure legal recognition of your company name in the Philippines. It is determined based on your business type:

Corporation

Must end with “Inc.” or “Incorporated” to indicate its legal structure and limited liability status, which is necessary for SEC recognition.

One Person Corporation (OPC)

Must include “OPC” to show it is a single-shareholder corporation, giving clarity on ownership and legal responsibilities.

Partnerships

Use “Partnership” or “Pty” to specify the entity type, making it clear that the business is owned by multiple partners, highlighting liability arrangements.

Company Data Available Through Our Company Search Tool

The Companies House company search tool provides essential information about Philippine businesses to help you make informed decisions before registering or partnering with a company.

1. Company Profile

The company profile provides key information about a Philippine company’s identity and operations, including:

  • Company Name: The official registered name and any previous names.
  • Registration Number: Unique identifier assigned by the SEC.
  • Date of Incorporation: When the company was legally formed.
  • Company Type: Corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship.
  • Status: Active, inactive, or dissolved.
  • Registered Address: The official business address.
  • Business Activities: Summary of the company’s operations.

2. Ownership and Management

Information on the company’s leadership and ownership includes:

  • Directors and Officers: Names and roles in the company.
  • Shareholders: Individuals or corporate entities and their shareholdings.

3. Additional Information

Depending on the company type and filings, the tool may also provide:

  • Registered Capital: Total share capital at incorporation.
  • Auditors: Information about appointed auditors.
  • Charges or Liabilities: Any registered mortgages or pledges.
How long is a reserved company name valid?

SEC name reservations are valid for 30 days and can be renewed once for another 30 days, making the total possible reservation period 60 days.

What happens if my proposed name is rejected?

If the SEC rejects a proposed company name, an alternative that complies with SEC rules must be submitted, or the existing name proposal revised accordingly.

Do company names have to be in English?

Names can be in English, Filipino, or a combination. Foreign words are allowed but may require translation or justification.

Can I reserve the same name for different business types?

No, each company name must be unique within its business type or classification to avoid confusion and SEC rejection.

Is there a limit to the number of characters in a company name?

The SEC does not impose a strict character limit, but overly long names are discouraged as they may be cumbersome and harder to approve.

Can a reserved name be transferred to another person or entity?

No, a reserved company name is tied to the applicant and cannot be transferred to another person or entity.

Latest Insights on the Philippines Business Registration and SEC Guidelines