APEC economy: Philippines; Jurisdiction: Philippines

Temporary practice ('fly-in, fly-out' practice)

There is no express rule allowing temporary practice by foreign lawyers.

The general rule is that the practice of law is limited to the citizens of the Philippines.

Filipino citizenship is a requirement to engage in the practice of law. The only exception at present is re-acquisition by a foreigner with Filipino citizenship in accordance with RA 9225 [In re Benjamin Dacanay, 540 SCRA 424 (2007)]. Advising on international law would be considered 'practice of law' [Cayetano v Monsod, 201 SCRA 210 (1991)].

Limited licensing of foreign lawyers (foreign legal consultant rules)

A foreign lawyer cannot obtain a limited licence entitling them to offer advisory services in foreign and international law (ie become a foreign legal consultant).

Full licensing

A foreign lawyer cannot obtain a full licence to practise law in this jurisdiction (but see note above in relation to re-acquisition of citizenship).

Commercial association between lawyers and law firms

In this jurisdiction:

Practice of law means any activity in or out of court which requires the application of law, legal procedure, knowledge, training and experience. To engage in the practice of law is to perform those acts which are characteristics of the profession. Generally, to practise law is to give notice or render any kind of service, which device or service requires the use in any degree of legal knowledge or skill [Cayetano v Monsod, 201SCRA 210 (1991)].

Other regulatory issues

In this jurisdiction:

Contacts

Category Name Website or other contact details
Organisation(s) that controls licensing of lawyers Supreme Court of the Philippines www.sc.judiciary.gov.ph
Peak professional association representing the legal profession Integrated Bar of the Philippines www.ibp.org.ph
Other associations playing a significant role in developing policy for the legal profession Philippine Bar Association www.Philippinebar.org