The Leading Law Firms in the Philippines: Insights from Asia Business Law Journal

Asia Business Law Journal has unveiled its annual list naming the top law firms in the Philippines for 2025. Highlighting the dynamic landscape of legal services in the country, this recognition mirrors the increasing complexity and sophistication of legal needs, driven by significant recent legislative reforms meant to enhance foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Philippines.

Legislative Reforms Fueling Growth

The Philippine government is proactively creating an environment conducive to attracting foreign investments. Late in 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. endorsed the CREATE MORE Act, a comprehensive tax reform aimed at slashing the corporate income tax rate from 25% to 20% for qualified enterprises. By aligning its tax structure with neighboring Southeast Asian nations, such as Vietnam and Thailand, which boast a similar corporate tax rate, the Philippines expects to draw an influx of foreign capital.

Furthermore, in 2025, the Investors’ Lease Act was amended, extending the lease term for foreign investors on private land from the outdated 50 years to a more appealing 99 years. This reform addresses long-standing concerns regarding the security of land tenure among foreign entities, encouraging them to undertake long-term projects in various sectors, including real estate and agriculture.

Another progressive measure is the Konektadong Pinoy Act, passed in August 2025, aimed at modernizing telecommunications infrastructure. This act opens the market to new data transmission players, allowing them to operate without a legislative franchise. By promoting infrastructure sharing, it will encourage dynamic competition, ultimately benefiting consumers and investors alike.

The Role of Law Firms in Navigating Change

With these legislative changes, the role of law firms becomes increasingly pivotal. They advise foreign investors on navigating new regulations, ensuring compliance, and facilitating transactions that translate policy initiatives into practical outcomes. Asia Business Law Journal celebrates firms that excel in this arena through its Philippine Law Firm Awards 2025, recognizing exemplary legal practices across various sectors.

Award Highlights and Recognitions

ACCRALAW: Recognized as the Law Firm of the Year for three consecutive years, ACCRALAW stands out in arbitration and corporate legal services. Representing major entities like the country’s largest power utility in significant arbitration cases, they tackle complex issues arising from global fuel prices. Their expertise was also demonstrated by advising Megawide Construction Corporation during a substantial offering with the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia: Known for its data compliance prowess, this firm excelled in representing a global fintech company against an NPC-initiated investigation, effectively averting a temporary ban that would have hampered operations.

Puyat Jacinto & Santos (PJS Law): After merging with global law firm Dentons, PJS Law has catered to various industries, notably assisting Generali Asia with selling its stake in an insurance subsidiary.

Boutique Excellence

Federis & Associates, focusing on intellectual property (IP) law, has garnered acclaim not only for securing IP rights for brands but also for holistic service that encompasses brand management and regulatory compliance strategies. Their managing partner’s extensive experience in U.S. IP law adds a global dimension to their offerings.

Emerging Players

Khan Mercado Pena & Sena (KMAPS Law): A new entrant established in 2024, this firm quickly gained recognition for providing “big firm” quality advice in a boutique setting, particularly excelling in employment law for significant clients like Coca-Cola and multinational defense companies.

Sector-Specific Leaders

The awards also spotlight law firms excelling in key practice areas:

• DivinaLaw: Recognized for handling complex copyright and commercial agreements, including successfully managing disputes related to the Philippines’ longest-running television show.

• Villaraza & Angangco: Esteemed for their litigation practice and corporate advisory, including successfully navigating major mergers and acquisitions across diverse sectors.

• Hechanova Group: Distinguished in IP prosecution and contentious legal matters, demonstrating consistent reliability in protecting client interests in both routine and complex legal scenarios.

Looking Ahead: The Legal Landscape

The evolving legal environment in the Philippines, marked by a wave of legislative reforms and the increasing importance of legal advisory services, promises a landscape ripe with opportunities. As the country prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026, the visibility and attractiveness for foreign investments will undoubtedly sharpen, intensifying the role of proficient law firms in facilitating this progress.

Each of the highlighted firms showcases their capability to adapt and thrive in this rapidly changing milieu, contributing not only to their clients but also to the broader economic landscape in the Philippines. As the external environment for business and investment continues to evolve, firms equipped with the right expertise will lead the charge in navigating these changes.