Philippines
AI Agent Legal Status: partial · Autonomy: low
Legal Framework
The BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) has established regulations for fintech and crypto businesses. The DICT (Department of Information and Communications Technology) has developed an AI roadmap. Regulation is developing but remains fragmented across agencies.
Key Laws & Regulations
- ◆BSP Circular 944 (Virtual Currency Exchanges)
- ◆Data Privacy Act of 2012
- ◆DICT AI Roadmap
Business Formation
Domestic corporation or branch office. Foreign ownership restrictions exist under the Foreign Investment Negative List, though the 2022 amendments liberalized several sectors.
Tax Implications
Standard CIT rate of 25%, reduced to 20% for small and medium enterprises with net taxable income not exceeding PHP 5M.
Opportunities
Growing BPO-to-tech transition creates AI adoption opportunities. Large English-speaking talent pool. BSP fintech sandbox for innovation.
Highlights
Large English-speaking workforce with strong BPO/tech services sector. BSP has been proactive on fintech regulation.
Risks & Challenges
Infrastructure challenges outside Metro Manila. Complex bureaucracy and foreign ownership restrictions. Regulatory fragmentation across agencies.