Philippines

Founded in 1972, Angara Abello Concepcion Regala & Cruz (ACCRALAW) is the country’s top-tier firm which is headquartered in Manila and has full-service branches in Cebu City and Davao City.

Focusses / specialisms

ACCRALAW has a track record in handling diverse, significant and complex cases, business projects and transactions for both local and multinational clients. The firm is best known for its banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, intellectual property, tax and employment practices.

The firm is also regularly consulted by the Philippine Senate and House of Representatives, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank and other organisations, and invited to assist in legislative and regulatory work.

Established in 2007, Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) is a full-service law firm located in Makati. It is a member firm of Rajah & Tann Asia, southeast Asia’s largest legal network.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm specialises in corporate and commercial transactions, litigation and arbitration, taxation, as well as labour and employment. It is particularly active in the energy, real estate and technology industries.

Key clients

Key clients include Ayala Land, Aboitiz group and Lopez/First Gen.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

The banking team was active for a mix of lenders and borrowers on domestic and cross-border structuring, closing lending, securities and other financing transactions.

In M&A, the firm was active on strategic deals on both the buy and sell side. The deals were in the real estate, aviation, energy, manufacturing, logistics, technology and BPO industries.

In projects, the firm is well versed in a variety of both public and private construction and infrastructure work and especially in the energy sector.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Export-Import Bank of China concessional loan.

Lendable SPC/Lendable Asset Management $20 million term loan facility

Liquefied natural gas infrastructure development project.

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

M&A

“Excellent in their advice, responsive and pragmatic.”

 Andrea Katipunan

“Extremely responsive.”

Gruba Caganda Advincula Melo & de la Fuente(GRUBA LAW) has diversified practices across the financial and corporate space. The firm boasts sole Filipino membership of the WPG law network.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm advises on banking and finance, M&A, capital markets, and restructuring and insolvency matters.

Sectors of activity include hospitality, banking and financial services, manufacturing, technology, and food and beverages.

Established in 2009, MOSVELDTT Law Offices is a full-service law firm with an office in Pasig City.

Focusses / specialisms

In banking, the firm has experience of advising digital banks and rural banks operating in the countryside which cater to farmers, fishermen and small businesses.

In capital markets, the firm has established its expertise in this field for being the only firm to lead securitization projects in the Philippines.

In M&A, the firm's experience encompasses taxable and tax-free mergers, stock and asset acquisitions, spin-off transactions, management buyouts and other leveraged buyouts.

In projects, the firm is active in contracts negotiation, transaction structuring, and drafting of unsolicited proposals and bidding papers to the government. 

Key clients

Key clients include National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

The banking team acted for the facility agent in a domestic financing work.

The capital markets team was particularly active on securitization matters.

The firm was also responsible for several confidential M&A and project development mandates during the research period.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

ARX’s financing.

National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation’s securitization.

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Capital markets

“MOSELDTT as our legal counsel and tax adviser provided guidance in the drafting of the transaction documents and studied the structure of our securitization issuance even where it's an entirely new financial product that has never been issued before.”

“They represent NHMFC in terms of negotiating with the regulators for the approval of our securitization plan with the Securities & Exchange Commission and other regulatory bodies. Provide suggestions and collaborate with the NHMFC team on other issues that may affect the issuance.”

Jerry Coloma

“Very accommodating and open to giving suggestions to any issues that NHMFC may encounter. Represents us with any regulatory bodies who may question the nature of the transaction.”

Rebecca Anne Flores

“Atty. Flores is very professional, available for any inquiries and guides us. Seeks solution and coordinates with third parties and regulators for the speedy submission of our requirements to the regulators.”

Located in Pasig City, full-service firm MARTINEZ VERGARA & GONZALEZ SOCIEDAD (MVGS) was founded in 2001 and has established a strong reputation in the financial and corporate space.

Focusses / specialisms   

The firm excels in capital markets work and has formidable banking and finance, corporate and M&A and project development practices.

The banking team is experienced in acting for domestic and international banks and advises on both transactional and regulatory compliance matters.

The capital markets team is especially strong on the debt side and handles equity matters such as IPOs, rights offer, follow-on offers and tender offers.

The corporate team often acts on matters in sectors including banking and financial services and manufacturing.

In projects the firm often represents financiers, project proponents, and sponsors and has extensive experience in advising on PPP infrastructure projects.

Key clients

Noteworthy clients include Bank of Commerce, Chinabank Capital Corporation, Farallon Capital, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Solar Power Tarlac Corporation and Nexif Energy Philippines.

Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)

The banking team was recently active for clients such as lenders, borrowers, and agents on a variety of financing transactions, notably acting on several project financings.

On the capital markets debt front, the firm often acted for issuers on note issues. On the equity side it worked for issuers on IPOs and share offerings.

Corporate highlights include advising RISA Partners on the high-value acquisition of Anytime Fitness gyms.

The projects team advised on the development of coal-fired power plants and towers.

With regard to staffing changes, senior partner Elmer Serrano, partner Phil Ivan Chan and senior associate Tephanie Gandia of the M&A, anti-trust and banking and finance team departed the firm. Also, senior associate David del Castillo of banking and finance, projects and energy, real estate and construction, and senior associate Melissa Jean G. Hipolito of M&A and banking and finance departed the firm too. Except David del Castillo, all moved to Serrano Law.

Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023) 

Aboitiz Infracapital macro towers

CSW-Iloilo P106 million term loan facility

DDMP REIT PSE IPO

RISA Partners acquisition of Anytime Fitness gyms.

Sta. Lucia Land P7 billion notes facility

Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Makati City, Puyat Jacinto & Santos (PJS Law) is a full-service law firm that offers a comprehensive range of legal services in both established and emergent fields of practice.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm has established in-depth knowledge and extensive transactional experience in specialised fields such as energy, infrastructure, corporate/mergers and acquisitions, banking, finance and capital markets, and conflict resolution.

With a history dating back to 1902, Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & de Los Angeles is known for its high-quality financial and corporate offering in the Philippines. The firm boasts a global reach through its membership of Lex Mundi and has offices in Manila, Cebu and Hong Kong.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is ranked in the top tiers in banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, project development, and restructuring and insolvency.

The firm is experienced in a range of industry sectors, including banking and financial services, fintech, real estate, energy and infrastructure, and utilities.

Serrano Law was founded by legal expert Elmer B. Serrano in 2021. Its main practice areas include corporate, contracts, intellectual property, startups, dispute resolution and general business.

Focusses / specialisms  

M&A is a top specialisation of the firm. The corporate team regularly acts as counsel on acquisitions involving both equity purchase and asset sale in the shipping, logistics, real estate, energy and retail sectors.

The firm has extensive experience in the capital markets, it advises on private equity transactions, securities offering and issuance including debt-to-equity swaps of publicly listed companies.

The firm also has strengths in restructuring and project development. It is adept at local public-private partnership projects.

Key clients

Key clients include Philippine Veterans Bank, BDO Securities, Armstrong Securities, Philippine Payments Management, Hitachi Digital Payment Solutions, Anchor Land and Melco Resorts and Entertainment (Philippines).

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

In the capital markets area, the firm advised on debt and equity transactions. On the debt side it acted for issuers on bond issues. A significant mandate saw the firm assist with a blue bond issuance which was the first blue bond issuance in the whole of Asia ex-China. On the equity side, it worked for issuers on share capital increasing.

In M&A, the firm was active on strategic deals on both the buy and sell side. Deals are across different sectors including banking, insurance and investment management.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Accel-KKR’s potential acquisition of Salary.com.

BDO Unibank’s blue bond issuance.

SM Investments Corporation and Allfirst Equity Holdings merger.

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Capital markets: Equity

“Serrano lawyers are very approachable and easy to deal with. They can advise us on matters peculiar to debt capital markets.”

Financial services regulatory

“Delivers positive results and in a timely manner; attentive to the requirements and clarifications; and provides appropriate legal guidance.”

M&A

“Serrano Law, Philippines has a strong background and technical expertise in corporate disclosures, core and ancillary corporate services, commercial transactions, banking and finance, merger and acquisitions, and similar fields.”

“Serrano Law, Philippines is equipped with a legal and technical team who can readily address and timely respond to queries that need sound legal advice and opinions.”

Private equity

“Excellent legal services rendered to us.”

Project finance

“Serrano has provided valuable insights in drafting and review of agreements (such as lease agreements) and comments on correspondence with banks and regulatory agencies.”

Phil Ivan Chan

“Approachable, easy to deal with.”

Tephanie Gandia

“Good client relationship management, practice in providing alternatives and/or solutions.”

“She has a strong legal background with expertise in the area of banking, very attentive to the requirements of BAP with a very high success rate. Very easy to work with, thus, completing the tasks in a timely manner.”

Elmer Serrano

“Atty Serrano is able to provide sound and technical legal advice and opinions on matters that need immediate attention. His business acumen in banking and finance, merger and acquisition, and investment policies is an advantage.”

“Atty Elmer Serrano's low-key personality allows clients to easily share concerns and issues that need his immediate advice. His in-depth knowledge of banking and finance, merger and acquisition and corporate disclosures, among other things, is an advantage.”

“Practice in providing alternatives and/or solutions.”

“Well experienced.”

Active since 1945, SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan is one of the most well-known names in the Filipino legal market and has established itself as one of the clear market leaders. The firm has offices in Manila, Davao, Cebu and Subic.

Focusses / specialisms  

In addition to advising on traditional banking matters, the firm has a focus on aviation financing, fintech and Islamic finance and is the only Philippine member of the Islamic Finance Network.

The capital markets team’s experience covers matters involving bonds, notes, derivatives and hybrid securities.

The M&A team has extensive experience in merger notification and regulatory compliance-related work.

Sectors of activity include transport, agriculture, energy, banking and financial services, real estate, and food and beverage.

Key clients

Key clients include Citibank, Standard Charted, ING Bank, Mizuho Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking, Bank of America, JP Morgan, SM Investments Corporation, Metro Pacific, San Miguel and Meralco.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

The banking team was active for a mix of lenders and borrowers on domestic and cross-border financings, include the first energy transition financing in the Philippines.

In the capital markets area, the firm advised on debt and equity transactions. On the debt side, it did a mix of issuer and underwriter side work on bond issues. On the equity side, it worked for joint issue manager, joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner on IPOs.

In M&A, the firm was active on joint ventures, private acquisitions and public acquisitions. The deals were across different sectors including mining and natural resources, automotive and e-commerce.

The project team was active advising clients from power and energy, and infrastructure sectors.

In staffing changes, partner Marievic G. Ramos-Añonuevo retired from the firm in August 2022.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Aboitiz InfraCapital/EdgeConneX joint venture.

Bain Capital Private Equity’s acquisition of VXI Global's BPO and information technology outsourcing business.

Bank of the Philippine Islands’ term loan facility.

The 90MW onshore wind project in Libmanan. 

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Banking and finance

“The Law Office has been able to maintain the expertise and knowledge in project finance and issuance of securities. They have updated the mandatory requirements for the same.”

Capital markets: Equity

“First, the firm was very well versed with the IPO process. As the Bank of Commerce was the first bank IPO in the Philippines after eight years, it was crucial that the firm was able to provide us with colour on what happened in these bank IPOs eight years ago as well as colour on recent IPO transactions in the country.

Second, the Bank of Commerce IPO also came at a time when the PSE was introducing major changes to the underwriting mechanics and conditions. The firm was crucial in coordinating and negotiating with the PSE (on behalf of the underwriters) about these changes.

Lastly, the firm is able to draft, turn around and provide views on documents in a quick and efficient manner.”

“Quality advice and practical approach.”

“Very professional and experienced. Excellent lawyers.”

 Project finance

“Despite being a relatively young team, they have exuded professionalism in the work they undertake. The same Sycip team was working on another urgent transaction closing at the same time as our engagement. They observed proper resource allocation to ensure our engagement closes on a timely basis. Apart from its professional work, the firm was likewise selected based on its involvement in many landmark project finance transactions.”

“Very thorough.”

Simeon Ken Ferrer

“Atty. Ferrer immediately attends to the work required of the law office and responds to requests made at the earliest time possible.”

 Bhong Macasaet

“Bhong is very approachable and accommodating. He responds to our questions in a timely manner.”

 Joan Mae To-Conejos

“She is very responsive and makes sure to understand the full context and commercial relevance of legal concerns/queries we raise.”

“First, Joan Mae To-Conejos is quick to point out items of concern such as contentious suggestions, deviation from standard language/precedents, as well as legal risks and exposures. She is very transparent and does not sugarcoat potential issues and risks.

Second, Joan Mae To-Conejos turns around work quickly and efficiently. She has always met our timelines even if some of these were tight.

Lastly, Joan Mae To-Conejos has a deep trove of experience and institutional knowledge, gifts clients truly benefit from as they are able to anticipate potential issues that other firms/issuers have encountered before.”

 Philbert Varona

“Very approachable and upfront.”

“Very patient and understanding of client requirements. Offers confidence to clients.”

Established in 1980, Villaraza & Angangco maintains an office in Taguig and holds membership of the ASEAN Plus Group.

Focusses / specialisms  

The firm performs consistently well in banking and finance, M&A, project development, and restructuring and insolvency.

Sectors of focus include renewable energy, healthcare, insurance, telecommunications, infrastructure, technology, pharmaceuticals and shipping.

Key clients

Key clients include a consortium of banks, Swiss Re, DITO Telecommunity, China Telecommunications, FSG Technology Ventures, Alternergy Holdings, Venteny Fortuna International and Manila Water Total Solutions.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

The banking team was active for borrowers on financing. It also advised on financial services regulatory matters.

The capital markets team was particularly active on equity mandates, especially IPOs and share offerings.

In M&A, the firm was active on mergers, private acquisitions and asset acquisitions in the telecommunications, energy, oil and gas, and power sectors.

The firm’s project and development practice was highly visible in ownership and contract structuring for energy, particularly renewable energy projects. It was also active on bidding and government infrastructure projects.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Abu Dhabi Development Holding’s acquisition of 70% of shares in Unifrutti Investment.

Kiangan Mini Hydro Corporation’s project financing between KMHC and the DBP.

Sunshine Law Firm’s purchase of 100% of CEEC Tower.

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Banking and finance

“Very professional and efficient.”

Financial services regulatory

“V&A’s strength is that they provide well-researched and carefully analysed legal advice. They think out of the box and anticipate varying circumstances and oppositions which we may encounter from other stakeholders. They provide strategic options which we may consider, ensuring that its position will not be compromised.”

M&A

“Villaraza & Angangco has a deep understanding of local practice and is swift in finding the best solution against a very complex background. Their professional service impressed the clients, and they can provide services tailored to the clients' needs.”

“Well-versed in the energy sector and M&A. Very responsive. Senior members are actively involved. Has deep M&A experience. Meets committed timelines.”

Project development

“The project requires advice on various areas of law (such as litigation, contract review, and advice on national and local laws and regulations affecting the project). Being a full-service law firm, V&A can assist us with all our requests for reviews and legal opinions. They have dedicated experts (senior partners) who are hands-on, which I appreciate a lot. They are very reasonable in their bills, which helps me manage the project costs.”

Restructuring

“Professional and proactive.”

 Franchette Acosta

“Actively involved. Can be reached easily. Has deep industry and legal insights. Provides detailed insights and views supported by relevant regulations. Provides guidance to her team. Provides assistance on matters outside the main scope.”

“Ms. Acosta is the team leader on this mandate. She is very trustworthy in finding the most suitable solution for the client under very complex circumstances. She is also very positive in responding to the clients' queries, even late at night.”

“Very professional and amiable.”

 Richard Henrick Beltran

“Professional and proactive.”

“V&A partner Richard Henrick Beltran currently serves as our corporate secretary. His legal expertise has been valuable in crafting our strategy and position for its policy initiatives and in ensuring that the corporate legal housekeeping matters of the Alliance are well-managed. He provides guidance to his team well and ensures that the legal matters requiring V&A’s attention will be attended. He is approachable and is responsive whenever his assistance is needed.”

“Very professional and diligent.”

 Carlo Roman

“Carlo's work output is excellent. He is easy to work with and is always reachable.”

 Kristin Charisse Siao

“Very responsive. Provides detailed views and insights.”

 Maria Concepcion Simundac

“Very professional and diligent.”

 Sylvette Tankiang

“She takes into consideration the needs of the business in coming up with proposals. I find that they are always fair. Sylvette takes good care of her clients.”

Founded in 2007, local law firm Abuda Asis & Associates is located in Makati and is led by managing partner Cornelio Abuda.

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm is active in the financial and corporate space and is recognized for its banking and finance and corporate and M&A work.

The firm is experienced in sectors such as banking and financial services, food and beverage, energy, utilities, and automotive.

Key clients  

Clients include JCA 1221 Holdings, Macay Holdings, Development Bank of the Philippines, Land Bank of the Philippines, and Almana Power Corporation.

Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021) 

Banking and finance

"AAA Law's customer service was excellent. The firm fielded us with young, energetic, sharp, and responsive team which turn around requests and deliverables in a timely manner. They also made sure to be available on urgent matters, even under such short or immediate notice. AAA Law did not only focus on legal drafting deliverables, but they acted as real advisers in terms of dealing and addressing multiple issues and structuring around them. In project finance, documentation is superb, thorough, and solution-oriented. They are also very accommodating in providing legal advice and were easily available to draft the necessary agreements, waivers and consent letters. The output is excellent, requires minimal review from the borrower team."

"Knowledge of transaction. Quick turnaround. Approachable."

With two offices in Taguig City, Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia has well established corporate and M&A and project development practices. Key figures in the firm include Manuel Manaligod, who serves as chairman, and Aida Araceli Roxas-Rivera, who serves as head of the corporate and special projects department.

Focusses / specialisms    

In M&A, the firm provides advice on a range of matters including acquisitions, joint ventures, corporate divestments, buy-outs, dissolutions and spin-offs.

In projects, the firm has a focus on sectors including infrastructure, mining and energy. The firm has transactions across various sectors.

Key clients

Notable clients include Aboitiz Group, W Group, Unilever Group, ABS-CBN Corporation, Unicapital, Filinvest Development Corporation, Asian Terminals, and Dole Philippines.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

M&A

"Experts on Philippine Law surrounding M&A and Stock Exchange requirements."

Founded in 2015, Gorriceta Africa Cauton & Saavedra has diversified practice across the financial and corporate space, with a particular focus on the technology, media and telecommunications sector. The firm has offices in Pasig City, Taguig City, Iloilo City and Davao City.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm’s key strength lies in its capital markets practice. It also provides advice on banking and finance, M&A and project development mandates.

Sectors of activity for the firm include fintech, technology, media and telecommunication, healthcare, food and beverage, transport and social infrastructures.

Key clients

Key clients include Dragonpay Corporation, DBDOYC, Yuchengco Group of Companies, D.M. Wenceslao & Associates, UBX Philippines Corporation, Acquiring Entity and Quiddity Usability Labs.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

Financial services regulatory

"They are well versed and competent in interpreting the regulatory requirements based on the circulars and memorandums issued for fintech companies."

M&A

"Thorough knowledge of regulatory and other requirements of transaction."

Founded in 2015, Gulapa Law is a boutique law firm with offices in Manila, Cebu, New York and San Francisco, and has recently opened an office in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. In addition, Gulapa Law is affiliated with prestigious organisations such as One Asia Legal and IR Global. 

Focusses / specialisms

The firm was active in general corporate, M&A, projects and infrastructure, such as public-private partnership projects, banking and finance, real estate and construction, technology, media and telecommunications, antitrust and competition, intellectual property, and dispute resolution.

Key clients

Key clients include Altus Capital Corporation, ACP Investments One, Philippine Asset Growth One, Duke Manufacturing Corporation, Kyushu Electric Power and AC Health.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

The banking team was active for a mix of lenders and borrowers on domestic and cross-border financing.

In M&A, the firm was active on strategic deals on the buy side. The deals were in the transport, real estate, energy and healthcare sectors.

In projects, the team always acted for project developers and stakeholders in consumer goods and services, real estate and financial investment sectors.

The firm was also active in restructuring work, mostly corporation subject of capital restructuring.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Aboitiz InfraCapital’s acquisition of shares in GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation and its affiliates.

Altus Group’s corporate and debt restructuring.

The North-South Commuter Railway project.

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Banking and finance

“They know and understand the local regulations and requirements and provide a thorough analysis of options and approaches for consideration.”

 M&A

“Fast turnaround times. Quality output. Excellent understanding of client requirements.”

“The law firm has wealth of knowledge and experience in the PPP sector and M&As.”

 PPP/PFI

“Thorough, responsive, reliable, commercially driven, practical and solution-driven advice.”

“Very responsive to our queries and with competitive rates.”

Project development

“Thorough and detailed.”

 Project finance

“Gulapa Law is technically competent and very good at problem-solving. They are a real asset in any project endeavour. Most law firms will tell you what you cannot do without helping you to find a way to get around obstacles. Gulapa Law is easy to work with, always submits work on time, and is truly value-adding.”

 Restructuring

“Their familiarity with the Financial Rehabilitation and Insolvency Act and its rules proves to be advantageous as they can skillfully apply them to a pending matter before the Rehabilitation Court. What's noteworthy also is that they can also relate these rules to other laws in different fields and even laws of procedures.”

Melissa Chavez-Dee

“Very prompt and thorough.”

Aris Gulapa

“Aris is the go-to guy for all PPP-related matters. He is passionate about the deal and advocated really well for our position during negotiations. Even with his busy schedule, he would attend meetings in person.”

“Aris is very attentive to his client's requirements and is accommodating of our costs and timelines. He manages our engagements very well and offers keen insights into the legal issues at hand. He is an excellent lawyer, and you will always want him on your side of the fence.”

“Responsive, professional, hard-working, value-adding. When we work on PPP projects, we try to build a project that will address a problem. He helps us get there.”

“Very knowledgeable. He can summarise complex legal matters in an easy-to-understand format. He is thorough in his analysis and identifies optimal solutions.”

Angel Machuca

“Angel is extremely knowledgeable about the PPP sector. During emergencies, I can count on him to take calls even after office hours. He always delivers to deadlines, which I appreciate a lot. Angel understands the client's needs and delivers on that.”

Insights Philippines Legal Advisors was founded in 2017 and is a member of the KPMG Law network. The firm is led by managing partner Felix Sy and has an office in Taguig.

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm has a strong banking practice and also advises on corporate and M&A, project development and restructuring and insolvency matters.

The firm takes on clients from a variety of sectors and has a special focus in the fintech space.

Key clients  

Recent clients include Berkeley, RedCargo Logistics and ENGIE Global Markets.

Martinez Vergara & Gonzalez Sociedad (MVGS) is a full-service law firm established in 2007. The firm joined Drew Network Asia, an alliance of some of the most influential and well-established southeast Asian law firms, in 2021.

Focusses / specialisms

In banking, the team is particularly active in financing activities across various industry sectors, such as power, oil and gas, consumer goods and services, real estate and property development, and infrastructure.

The firm also provides dedicated services on the equity and debt side of the capital market. The team handled a wide spectrum of securities-related issues ranging from IPOs, rights offers, tender offers, reverse takeovers of publicly listed firms, as well as private equity.

In M&A, the firm performs consistently well on acquisitions involving both equity purchase and asset sale in the banking, shipping, real estate, power and energy, and manufacturing sectors.

Key clients

Key clients include China Bank Capital, SB Capital Investment, DDPC Worldwide, DoubleDragon Properties, Sta. Lucia Land, Basic Energy and Solar Power Tarlac.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

The banking team was regularly engaged to represent financial institutions or the borrowers or project proponents in loan syndications, acquisition financing and project financing transactions across the spectrum of industries.

In the capital markets area, the firm advised on debt and equity transactions. On the debt side it did a mix of issuer and initial purchaser side work on investment grade and green bond issues. On the equity side, it worked for issuers on IPOs.

In M&A, the firm was active representing local and foreign clients, including private and publicly listed companies, in their acquisitions and strategic divestments of assets, business or equity interests, as well as mergers and consolidations of subsidiaries and affiliates.

In projects, the firm has advised private project proponents and financiers for infrastructure, energy and natural resources projects.

In restructuring and insolvency, the firm recently acted for both creditors, debtors and shareholders.

Deal highlights: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Citicore Energy REIT’s IPO.

Basic Energy Corporation’s acquisition of at least 60% interest in Filoil Energy Corporation.

PV Sinag Power’s corporate notes issuance.

Sta. Lucia Land’s loan facility agreement.

Client feedback: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

Capital markets: Debt

“Mastery of the law. Readily accessible to clients.”

 Janice Co

“Attention to detail and timely turnarounds.”

 Manuel Gonzalez

“Dedication to client's needs.”

Gwyneth Ong

“She has in-depth knowledge of corporate finance and its attendant laws and always looks after the needs of the client.”

Established in 1951, Meer Meer & Meer is a Philippines-based boutique firm with an informal network of partner firms abroad, particularly in southeast Asia.

Focusses / specialisms    

The firm’s corporate and M&A department are active in the startup and venture capital ecosystem. It also advises on cross-border joint venture agreements and franchise agreements between companies in the Asia-Pacific region.

Key clients

Notable clients include Foxmont Capital Partners, Wavemaker Partners, Singapore Medical Laboratories  and Sarisuki Stores.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

M&A

"Meer helped us throughout the process – from guidance to the work necessary to get the deal done. They provided valuable feedback on the terms of the deal."

"Their knowledge and appreciation of local regulations, specifically those related to our industry, greatly helped the buyer's appreciation of our business value."

Founded in 1994, Poblador Bautista & Reyes is a full-service law firm based in Makati. The firm currently has 15 partners, 23 associates and two consultants and is led by founding partners Alexander J. Poblador, Mario Luza Bautista and Gilbert Raymund T. Reyes. 

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is well networked in litigation and commercial arbitration, corporations, real estate and construction, intellectual property, media and telecommunications, anti-trust and competition, insurance and banking, insolvency and restructuring, family law, taxation and immigration.

In corporate and M&A, capital markets, and banking and finance work, the firm provides analysis and due diligence on companies in relation to asset acquisition, deal restructuring, public offering, share purchases, and loan and allied transactions, among others.

Key clients

Notable clients include United Overseas Bank, Fortune Brands Home & Security, Synergy Grid & Development Philippines, Oxford HR Consultants, SR Metals, Unisys, Alpha Aviation Group and Asian Terminals.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

Restructuring

"They have a broad perspective on all legal matters. They partner with us in all cases that we refer to them, we feel sincerity and professionalism."

Founded in 1984, PunoLaw is a full-service law firm located in Mandaluyong City. The firm is a member of the executive and legislative branches of the Philippine government.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is best known for its energy and power, infrastructure, banking, project finance, property development and mining sectors.

Research period review: 33^rd edition (2022/2023)  

In staffing changes, the firm recruited Kristie Auriel T. Enriquez-Concepcion into the banking, capital markets, M&A and project development team as partner while senior partners Jose M. Layug Jr. and Richie Avigale R. Pilares in the project development team departed the firm.

Founded in 1963, Quisumbing Torres is a well-known name in the Filipino legal market and a member of Baker & McKenzie International. The firm is headquartered in Taguig City.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is recognised for its consistently high-quality work in banking and finance, capital markets, corporate and M&A, and project development.

The firm takes on mandates across a variety of sectors, including renewable energy, mining, transport, healthcare, technology and telecommunication, and banking and financial services.

Key clients

Notable clients include Alphabet, Allianz PNB, Changi Airport International, China Copper, Forever 21, GlaxoSmithKline, PruLife Insurance Corporation of UK, Prudential Corporation Asia and Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

Project development

"Providing sound and practical advice."

"QT has been a reliable partner to us in providing sound information and advice that we use in expanding our new projects in the Philippines."

Founded in 2007, full-service law firm Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) has offices in Makati City. The firm is a member of the Rajah & Tann Asia network, the largest network of lawyers in southeast Asia.

Focusses / specialisms

C&G Law’s financial and corporate work focuses on transactions.

On banking and finance matters, it has acted for borrowers and lenders, both local and foreign, and assisted with structuring, documenting and closing lending, securities and other financing transactions.

The firm’s capital markets experience includes assisting with initial public offerings, private placements and other capital-building exercises. The team also frequently advises on market entry and regulatory compliance for various industries.

Key clients

Notable clients include SN Aboitiz Power, Mizuho Bank, Lendable SPC and AREIT.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

Capital markets

"Rajah & Tann work well within very tight deadlines. They render comprehensive advice and opinions and coordinate well with the client by keeping open lines of communication."

Founded in 2019, SKY Law is a rapidly growing full-service law firm based in Pasig City. The firm has expertise in corporate, business, labour, taxation, intellectual property and data privacy laws.

Focusses / specialisms

In corporate practice, the firm specialises in M&A, project development, banking and finance, and special projects.

The firm has links with the Filipino Chinese community in the Philippines. It also has alliances with law firms based in China and other jurisdictions.

Key clients

Notable clients include Hicor Manufacturing, Zark’s Food Ventures, Steelworld Manufacturing, Philippine Cockfighting International, Aguinaldo Development, Visaya Knowledge Process Outsourcing, Exceture, Inspira Prime International and Fortem Cement.

Client feedback: 32^nd edition (2022/2023)

Project development

"They have very good attention to detail."

Project finance

"They are good, experienced, competent, prompt in service, and give sound legal advice."

Established in 2019, Kua Sy and Yeung Law Offices (SKY Law) is a full-service law firm based in Manila. The firm is a member firm of Alliott Global Alliance.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is best known for its litigation and dispute resolution, corporate, business, labour, taxation, intellectual property and data privacy laws.

Tiongco Siao Bello and Associates Law Offices is a full-service law firm with branches in Manila, Cebu and Davao.

Focusses / specialisms

The firm’s main area of practice is corporate law, litigation and labour law. It also has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, real estate, banking, taxation and tax planning, bankruptcy and intellectual property.

The firm serves a diverse portfolio of clients from the Philippines, Japan, China, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Canada, the US and other countries, across different industries.