Business registration - how to register a business name? This question was asked by a friend, something which I find a bit surprising because this information, as well as other information on registration, are now readily available on the internet. Pres. Arroyo issued Memorandum Circular No. 35 way back in 2003, directing all departments, bureaus, offices and instrumentalities of the government, including government-owned and controlled corporations, to implement the publication of service guides and the posting of workflow charts.

 

On the part of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), it published a handbook to guide would-be entrepreneurs on the process flow of starting a small business, the risks and rewards of going into business, and tips on writing a business plan. The handbook also provides the likely requirements in registering with the various government institutions. Among the matters discussed in the handbook is business name registration.

 

As stated in the Handbook, by registering your business name, you are assured that no other entity may legally use your business name anywhere in the Philippines. Here are the steps (shortened):

 

1.  Obtain application forms (duplicate copy), preferred name slip and index card from the Information Desk and fill these up completely. Only the owner of the business is allowed to sign all the forms.

 

2.  Meet the following requirements (For Sole Proprietorship):

3.  Proceed to the designated window for evaluation.

 

4.  Pay required fees at the cashier (registration and processing fee).

 

5.  Get priority number then proceed to the waiting area. Business Name Certificates are released within 10-15 minutes after approval.

 

This is done at the DTI - NCR office (Ground Floor, DTI Main Building, 361 Sen, Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City) or at designated satellite registration centers in selected cities in Metro Manila. You can read more about the Business Name Registration System (click here) or download the full text of the HANDBOOK through the DTI site (click here).