LAWS RELATING TO BUSINESS ETHICS
(www.business.gov.ph)
ACT 3883 - BUSINESS NAME LAW
I shall be unlawful for any person to use or sign, on any written or printed receipt,
including receipt for tax on business, or on any written or printed contract not verified
by a notary public, or on any written or printed evidence of any agreement or business
transactions, any name used in connection with his business other than his true name,
or conspicuously exhibited in plain view in or at the place where the business is
conducted, if he is engaged in a business, any sign announcing a firm name or business
name or style, without first registering such other name, or such firm name or business
name or style in the Department of Trade and Industry with his true name and that of
any other people having a joint or common interest with his in such contract, agreement,
business transaction or business.
Business name laws vary by country and jurisdiction, so it's important to be aware
of the regulations that apply to your specific location. Generally, the process of
registering and protecting a business name involves the following considerations:
1. Business Name Registration:
In many jurisdictions, businesses are required to register their names
with the appropriate government agency. This is often done at the state
or national level, depending on the country's laws.
The registration process may involve checking the availability of the
desired business name to ensure it is unique and not already in use by
another entity.
2. Trade Name vs. Trademark:
A business name is not the same as a trademark, though there may be
overlap. Registering a business name typically gives you the right to use
that name within the jurisdiction, but it may not provide exclusive rights
to the name for specific goods or services.
If you want exclusive rights to your business name in connection with
specific products or services, you may need to register a trademark.
3. Trademark Registration:
Trademarks are typically registered with the intellectual property office
in your jurisdiction. This provides legal protection for the name in
connection with specific goods or services.
Trademark registration is often more comprehensive and provides
broader protection than a business name registration.
4. Compliance with Naming Rules:
Some jurisdictions have specific rules regarding the choice of business
names. For example, certain words may be prohibited, or the name may
need to accurately reflect the nature of the business.
5. Renewal and Maintenance:
Business name registrations and trademarks often require periodic
renewal to remain in force. It's essential to be aware of these renewal
requirements and comply with them to maintain your rights.
6. Enforcement:
If someone else uses a name similar to yours in a way that could lead to
confusion, you may have legal grounds to enforce your rights. This may
involve legal action to protect your business name or trademark.
To ensure compliance with business name laws and regulations, it's advisable to
consult with legal professionals or the relevant government agencies in your
jurisdiction. They can provide specific guidance based on the laws applicable to your
business.
QUALIFICATIONS OF AN APPLICANT
Any individual who is at least 18 years old or any juridical person doing
business or proposing to do business in the Philippines and is not disqualified by any
existing law to engage in business
The qualifications required for registering a business name can vary depending on
the jurisdiction and the specific regulations in place. However, in many cases, the
process of registering a business name is generally straightforward, and there aren't
strict qualifications for applicants. Here are some common considerations:
1. Legal Entity Type:
Typically, individuals, partnerships, corporations, and other legal
entities can register a business name. The requirements may vary based
on the type of business structure chosen.
2. Unique and Non-Deceptive Name:
The proposed business name usually needs to be unique and not
deceptively similar to existing businesses in the same jurisdiction. This
is to avoid confusion among consumers.
3. Compliance with Naming Rules:
Some jurisdictions have specific rules regarding business names. For
example, certain words might be prohibited, or the name may need to
accurately reflect the nature of the business. Ensure that your proposed
name complies with these rules.
4. Registration Fee:
There is often a registration fee associated with registering a business
name. The amount may vary, so it's essential to check with the relevant
government agency in your jurisdiction.
5. Registration Process:
Applicants typically need to complete a registration form provided by
the government agency responsible for business registrations. The form
may ask for details such as the business name, type of business entity,
business address, and other relevant information.
6. Verification of Availability:
Before submitting the registration, it's common for applicants to check
the availability of the desired business name to ensure it hasn't already
been registered by another entity.
7. Renewal Requirements:
Applicants should be aware of any renewal requirements for
maintaining the business name registration. This may involve periodic
renewals and payment of associated fees.
8. Compliance with Trademark Laws (Optional):
While not always a requirement for registering a business name,
businesses may choose to register their name as a trademark for
additional protection. This involves a separate process and may have
additional requirements.
It's important to note that these qualifications can vary significantly from one
jurisdiction to another. Therefore, it's advisable to consult with the relevant government
agency or seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the specific business name
registration requirements in your area. Additionally, consider consulting with a legal
professional to address any specific concerns or questions related to business name
registration in your jurisdiction.
REGULATE AND CONTROL OPERATION OF SERVICE AND REPAIR
ENTERPRISES - P.D. 1572
To regulate and control operation of service and repair enterprise for motor
vehicles, heavy equipment and engines and engineering works, electronics, electrical,
air conditioning and refrigeration, office equipment; medical and dental equipment and
other consumer mechanical and industrial equipment, appliances or devices, including
the technical personnel employed therein.
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Presidential Decree (P.D.) 1572
is a legal document in the Philippines. P.D. 1572, also known as the "Anti-Fencing
Law," was issued on June 11, 1978, and it primarily addresses the crime of fencing,
which involves the act of buying, selling, receiving, possessing, keeping, acquiring,
concealing, or disposing of stolen property.
It doesn't specifically regulate or control the operation of service and repair
enterprises. Instead, it focuses on the prevention of the fencing of stolen goods. If there
have been amendments or changes to this decree after my last update, it would be
essential to check the most recent legal sources or consult legal professionals in the
Philippines.
For regulations specific to service and repair enterprises, you may need to refer to
other laws and regulations that govern business operations, trade practices, or specific
industries in the Philippines. These could include regulations related to business
registration, consumer protection, occupational safety, and health standards, among
others.
To obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information, consider checking the
official legal databases, government websites, or consulting with legal professionals in
the Philippines who can provide guidance on the specific regulations relevant to service
and repair enterprises. Legal requirements can change over time, and it's crucial to have
the latest information to ensure compliance with the law.
LAW THAT PROHIBITS FRAUDULENT ADVERTISING, MISLABELING
OR MISBRANDING OF ANY PRODUCT (R.A. 3740)
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Republic Act (R.A.) 3740 is
indeed a Philippine law that addresses fraudulent advertising, mislabeling, or
misbranding of any product. Republic Act No. 3740 is also known as the "Truth in
Lending Act." However, it primarily focuses on providing transparency in the credit
transactions of consumers and does not specifically address fraudulent advertising,
mislabeling, or misbranding of products.
If there have been amendments or changes to R.A. 3740 or if there are other laws
enacted after my last update that specifically address fraudulent advertising,
mislabeling, or misbranding of products in the Philippines, it is advisable to check the
most recent legal sources or consult with legal professionals in the country for the latest
information.
For laws specifically addressing consumer protection, product labeling, and related
issues, you may want to look into other laws or regulations in the Philippines, such as
the Consumer Act of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 7394) or other relevant statutes
that govern fair trade practices, product quality, and consumer rights.
WHEN IS PRODUCT MISLABELED OR MISBRANDED?
In general, a product is considered mislabeled or misbranded when it is not
properly labeled or the labeling is misleading, inaccurate, or fails to comply with
applicable regulations. This can apply to various types of products, including food,
drugs, cosmetics, and other consumer goods. The specifics can vary by country, and
regulatory bodies set guidelines to ensure consumer safety and fair trade practices.
Here are some common scenarios where a product might be considered mislabeled
or misbranded:
1. False or Misleading Information:
Labeling that contains false or misleading statements about the product's
characteristics, ingredients, benefits, or origin could render the product
misbranded.
2. Incomplete Labeling:
Products must have labels that provide necessary information for
consumers, such as ingredients, instructions for use, warnings, and other
relevant details. Incomplete or insufficient labeling may lead to
misbranding.
3. Inaccurate Nutritional Information:
For food products, providing inaccurate nutritional information on the
label can be a form of mislabeling. This is particularly important for
consumers with specific dietary needs or restrictions.
4. Failure to Meet Regulatory Standards:
Products must meet specific standards set by regulatory authorities.
Failure to comply with these standards in terms of ingredients,
manufacturing processes, or safety can result in misbranding.
5. Improper Packaging:
Packaging that is deceptive or likely to cause confusion, especially
regarding the quantity or quality of the product, may lead to
misbranding.
6. Noncompliance with Allergen Labeling:
Failing to properly label allergens in food products, especially when
they are known allergens, can be considered misbranding.
7. Counterfeit or Imitation Products:
Products that are presented as something they are not, such as counterfeit
goods or imitation products, may be deemed misbranded.
8. Violation of Advertising Laws:
If the advertising of a product contains false or deceptive claims, it can
contribute to the product being considered misbranded.
Regulatory agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in many
countries, play a crucial role in enforcing these standards and taking action against
products that are mislabeled or misbranded. It's important for businesses to be aware of
and comply with labeling regulations to ensure consumer safety and fair competition.
WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE LABELS OF COMMODITIES?
Brand name, trademark, trade name use or the generic name in case of drugs;
Country of Origin
Physical and/or chemical composition;
Metric Length
Metric net contents
Name and address of the manufacturer or re-packer
CONSUMER ACT OF THE PHILIPPINES (R.A. 7394)
It is the policy of the state to protect the interest of the consumer, promote his/her
general welfare and to establish standards of conduct for business and industry.
OBJECTIVES:
Protection of consumers against hazards to health and safety;
Protection of the consumers against deceptive, unfair and unconscionable sales
acts and practices;
Provision of information and education to facilitate sound choice and the proper
exercise of rights by the consumer;
Provisions of adequate rights and means of redress;
Involvement of consumer representative in the formulation of social and
economic policies.
The Consumer Act of the Philippines is officially known as Republic Act No.
7394. Enacted on April 13, 1992, the Consumer Act aims to protect the interests of
consumers, promote their general welfare, and establish standards of conduct for
business and industry. Here are some key provisions and features of R.A. 7394:
1. Consumer Rights:
The law outlines the basic rights of consumers, including the right to
basic needs, right to safety, right to information, right to choose, right to
representation, and the right to redress.
2. Product Standards and Labeling:
The Consumer Act sets standards for the quality, safety, and
performance of products and services. It requires manufacturers to
provide accurate and sufficient information on labels.
3. Product Liability:
Manufacturers and distributors are held accountable for defective
products that cause harm to consumers. This encourages businesses to
produce safe and quality products.
4. Unfair and Deceptive Sales Practices:
The law prohibits unfair and deceptive sales practices, including false
advertising, misleading statements, and fraudulent schemes.
5. Product Recalls:
The Consumer Act empowers the government to order the recall of
products that pose a threat to consumer health and safety.
6. Price Tag Requirement:
Retailers are required to display the prices of consumer products,
making it easier for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
7. Warranties and Guarantees:
The law mandates that manufacturers and sellers provide warranties or
guarantees for certain products and services. It establishes the terms and
conditions for these assurances.
8. Consumer Organizations:
The Consumer Act recognizes the importance of consumer
organizations and encourages their formation to protect and promote
consumer rights.
9. Government Agencies:
The law designates government agencies, such as the Department of
Trade and Industry (DTI), to implement and enforce its provisions.
10. Administrative and Judicial Remedies:
The Consumer Act provides for both administrative and judicial
remedies to address consumer complaints. This includes the
establishment of the National Consumer Affairs Council (NCAC) and
the creation of consumer arbitration and conciliation procedures.
11. Penalties and Sanctions:
Violations of the Consumer Act may lead to penalties and sanctions,
including fines and imprisonment, depending on the nature and gravity
of the offense.
The Consumer Act of the Philippines is a comprehensive legal framework
designed to safeguard the rights and welfare of consumers. It emphasizes the
importance of fair business practices, truthful advertising, and the provision of quality
goods and services to consumers. Businesses operating in the Philippines should be
familiar with and adhere to the provisions of R.A. 7394 to ensure compliance with
consumer protection laws.
PRICE ACT (R.A. 7581)
It is an act providing protection to consumers by stabilizing the price and supply of
basic necessities and prime commodities and by prescribing measures against undue
price increases especially during emergency situations and like occasions.
The Price Act of the Philippines, officially known as Republic Act No. 7581, was
enacted on June 4, 1992. This law is aimed at ensuring stability and affordability of
basic necessities and prime commodities for the Filipino people. The Price Act seeks
to protect consumers from unreasonable price increases and to promote fair and
transparent pricing practices. Here are key features and provisions of R.A. 7581:
1. Declaration of Policy:
The law declares that it is the policy of the State to ensure the availability
of basic necessities and prime commodities at affordable prices.
2. Regulation of Prices:
The National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC), established under the
Price Act, has the authority to recommend and implement price ceilings
on basic necessities and prime commodities. This is done to prevent
undue increases in prices.
3. Automatic Price Control:
The law provides for the automatic imposition of price ceilings on basic
necessities and prime commodities in case of abnormal price increases.
4. Price Monitoring:
The NPCC, along with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and
other concerned agencies, monitors and assesses the prices of basic
necessities and prime commodities regularly.
5. Price-Freeze Periods:
In times of calamities, disasters, or other emergencies, the President has
the authority to declare a price-freeze period to prevent artificial price
increases.
6. Hoarding and Profiteering:
The law prohibits hoarding and profiteering activities, and violators may
face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
7. Coordination with Local Government Units (LGUs):
The NPCC coordinates with LGUs to implement and enforce price
control measures at the local level.
8. Price Tag Requirement:
Retail establishments are required to display price tags on consumer
products to provide transparency and enable consumers to make
informed choices.
9. Publication of Suggested Retail Prices (SRP):
The DTI publishes a list of SRPs for basic necessities and prime
commodities to guide both consumers and retailers.
10. Monitoring of Supply and Demand:
The government monitors the supply and demand for basic necessities
and prime commodities to address imbalances that may lead to price
fluctuations.
11. Creation of the Price Monitoring and Anti-Profiteering Council (PMPAC):
The PMPAC is established to monitor the prices of agricultural products
and implements measures against profiteering.
12. Public Information Campaigns:
The law encourages public information campaigns to inform consumers
about their rights and the prices of basic necessities and prime
commodities.
13. Exemptions:
Some products or sectors may be exempted from the provisions of the
Price Act under certain conditions.
The Price Act plays a crucial role in promoting consumer welfare by regulating
and stabilizing the prices of essential goods. It provides mechanisms to address issues
such as price increases during emergencies and aims to prevent unfair business
practices that may negatively impact consumers. Businesses operating in the
Philippines should be aware of the provisions of R.A. 7581 to ensure compliance with
pricing regulations.
WHAT ARE CONSIDERED AS ILLEGAL ACTS OF PRICE
MANIPULATION?
HOARDING - It is the accumulation by a person or combination of persons of
any basic necessity or prime commodity beyond hos or their normal inventory
levels or the unreasonable limitation or refusal to dispose of, sell or distribute
the stocks of any basic necessity or prime commodity to the general public or
the unjustified taking out of any basic necessity or prime commodity from the
channels of production, trade, commerce and industry.
PROFITEERING - It is the sale or offering for sale of any basic necessity or
prime commodity at a price grossly in excess of its worth.
CARTEL - It is any combination of or agreement between (2) or more persons
engaged in the production, manufacture, processing, storage, supply,
distribution, marketing, sale or disposition of any basic or prime commodity
designed to artificially and unreasonable increase or manipulate its price.
Illegal acts of price manipulation involve deceptive or fraudulent practices
intended to artificially inflate or deflate the prices of goods or services, often for the
purpose of gaining an unfair advantage or maximizing profits. The specific acts
considered illegal may vary by jurisdiction, but common examples include:
1. Price Gouging:
This occurs when sellers significantly raise the prices of essential goods
or services to take advantage of a crisis or emergency situation. It is
typically considered exploitative and may be prohibited during declared
states of emergency.
2. Collusion and Price Fixing:
Collusion involves businesses or competitors conspiring together to set
prices at an agreed-upon level, eliminating competition. Price fixing is
a form of collusion where competitors coordinate to control the prices
of goods or services, often to the detriment of consumers.
3. Bid Rigging:
In the context of competitive bidding, bid rigging occurs when
competitors collaborate to manipulate the bidding process, ensuring that
one of them secures the contract at an inflated price.
4. Market Manipulation:
Market manipulation involves artificially inflating or deflating the price
of a security, commodity, or other financial instrument. This can involve
spreading false information, engaging in deceptive trading practices, or
creating artificial demand or supply.
5. Insider Trading:
Insider trading involves trading securities based on material, non-public
information. This can lead to unfair advantages and distort the market
by allowing individuals to profit from information not available to the
general public.
6. Deceptive Advertising and Pricing:
Providing false or misleading information about prices, discounts, or the
value of goods or services can be considered illegal. This includes false
advertising, bait-and-switch tactics, or hidden fees.
7. Predatory Pricing:
Predatory pricing occurs when a business intentionally sets prices below
cost to drive competitors out of the market. Once competitors are
eliminated, the business may raise prices to monopolistic levels.
8. Hoarding:
Hoarding involves the accumulation and withholding of goods, creating
an artificial scarcity to drive up prices. This can be especially
problematic during times of crisis or emergencies.
9. Dumping:
Dumping occurs in international trade when a country exports goods at
prices lower than their production costs, often with the intention of
undermining the market in the importing country.
10. Price Discrimination:
Discriminatory pricing involves charging different prices for the same
goods or services to different customers without a legitimate reason.
This can harm competition and consumer welfare.
Illegal acts of price manipulation are typically addressed and regulated by
competition and consumer protection laws, securities regulations, and other relevant
legal frameworks. Individuals and businesses engaging in such practices may face civil
and criminal penalties, fines, and other legal consequences. It's important to be aware
of and comply with the specific laws and regulations in the jurisdiction where the
business operates.
PRICE TAG LAW (R.A. 71)
Section 1. All articles of consumers and trade offered for sale to public at retail
shall be publicly displayed with appropriate tags or labels to indicate the price of each
articles and said articles shall be sold uniformly and without discrimination at the stated
prices, PROVIDED, that lumber dealers are required to tag or label lumber offered for
sale to the public by indicating thereon the price and the corresponding official name
of the wood so as to enable the buyers to distinguish one species of wood from the
others.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE PRICE TAG LAW?
To discourage and minimize price haggling
Expedites transactions
Enables both the buyer and the seller to use their time and energy for more
productive endeavors.
Key provisions of the Price Tag Law (R.A. 71) include:
1. Mandatory Display of Prices:
Retail establishments are required to display price tags or labels on
consumer products. This includes goods such as clothing, food items,
household items, and other products sold to the public.
2. Legible and Easily Readable Prices:
Prices on the tags must be legible and easily readable. The law aims to
ensure that consumers can clearly see the prices of products.
3. Clear and Unambiguous Pricing:
The pricing on the tags should be clear and unambiguous to avoid
confusion among consumers.
4. Visible Placement:
Price tags must be conspicuously displayed on or near the products they
represent, allowing consumers to easily identify the prices while
shopping.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Retail establishments that fail to comply with the requirements of the
Price Tag Law may face penalties, which can include fines or other
sanctions.
It's important to note that while R.A. 71 addresses the use of price tags, other
laws and regulations, such as the Consumer Act of the Philippines (R.A. 7394), may
provide more comprehensive provisions related to consumer protection, fair trade
practices, and product labeling.
For the most up-to-date information on the Price Tag Law or any changes that
may have occurred after my last update, it is advisable to check with the relevant
government agencies in the Philippines or consult legal professionals familiar with
Philippine consumer protection laws.
PRODUCT STANDARDIZATION LAW (R.A. 4109)
An act to convert the Division of Standards under the Bureau of Commerce into a
Bureau of Standards, to provide for the standardization and/or inspection of products
and imports of the Philippines and for other purposes.
THE IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS
DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER 02, SERIES OF 2002 -
Defining the responsibilities and liabilities of manufacturers, importers, traders,
wholesalers, distributors, retailers and or their agents, with regard to products covered
by mandatory product certification and prescribing penalties for violation thereof.
To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on the IRR for RA 4109,
you can take the following steps:
1. Contact the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS):
The BPS is the agency under the DTI responsible for standards
development, product quality, and related matters. You may contact the
BPS directly to inquire about the implementing rules and regulations for
RA 4109.
2. Check Government Websites:
Official government websites, particularly those of the DTI and the BPS,
often provide access to legal texts, regulations, and implementing rules.
The relevant documents may be available for download or viewing on
these sites.
3. Visit Government Offices:
You may visit the offices of the BPS or the DTI in person to inquire
about or obtain a copy of the implementing rules and regulations.
4. Legal Databases:
Government legal databases or repositories may have the implementing
rules and regulations for RA 4109. Check online legal databases or
libraries that house legal documents and regulations in the Philippines.
5. Legal Professionals:
Consulting legal professionals, such as lawyers specializing in trade and
consumer protection law, may also provide guidance on accessing the
implementing rules and regulations for RA 4109.
Remember that laws and regulations are subject to updates and amendments, so it's
crucial to obtain the most recent and accurate information directly from the official
sources or authoritative channels.
FOREIGN INVESTMENT ACT (R.A. 7042)
It is the policy of the State to attract, promote and welcome productive investments
from foreign individuals, partnerships, corporations, and governments, including their
political subdivisions, in activities which significantly contribute to national
industrialization and socio-economic development to the extent that foreign investment
is allowed in such activity by the Constitution and relevant laws. Foreign investments
shall be encouraged in enterprises that significantly expand livelihood and employment
opportunities for Filipinos; enhance economic value of farm products; promote the
welfare of Filipino consumers; expand the scope, quality and volume of exports and
their access to foreign markets; and/or transfer relevant technologies in agriculture,
industry and support services. Foreign investments shall be welcome as a supplement
to Filipino capital and technology in those enterprises serving mainly the domestic
market.
As a general rule, there are no restrictions on extent of foreign ownership of export
enterprises. In domestic market enterprises, foreigners can invest as much as one
hundred percent (100%) equity except in areas included in the negative list. Foreign
owned firms catering mainly to the domestic market shall be encouraged to undertake
measures that will gradually increase Filipino participation in their businesses by taking
in Filipino partners, electing Filipinos to the board of directors, implementing transfer
of technology to Filipinos, generating more employment for the economy and
enhancing skills of Filipino workers.
The goal of this law is to encourage foreign investors to provide employment
opportunities, develop resources, increase the value of exports, and help fuel the overall
economy.
Republic Act No. 7042, also known as the "Foreign Investment Act of 1991," is a
Philippine law that governs foreign investments in the country. This law was enacted
to encourage and promote foreign investments by providing a framework for the entry,
operation, and protection of foreign investors in various economic activities. Here are
key features and provisions of the Foreign Investment Act:
1. Definition of Terms:
The law defines terms related to foreign investments, including "foreign
investor" and "foreign investment."
2. Forms of Investment:
The Foreign Investment Act allows foreign investors to participate in
economic activities in the Philippines through various forms, including
wholly-owned enterprises, joint ventures, or participation in investment
areas reserved for Filipino nationals.
3. Negative List:
The law includes a Negative List that enumerates economic activities
where foreign ownership is limited or prohibited. The list is periodically
updated to reflect the government's policy on foreign investments.
4. Registration of Investments:
Foreign investors are encouraged to register their investments with the
government to avail themselves of certain incentives and benefits. The
law establishes the procedures and requirements for registration.
5. Incentives and Guarantees:
The Foreign Investment Act provides incentives and guarantees to
registered enterprises, such as tax incentives, simplified customs
procedures, and the right to repatriate earnings and capital.
6. Investment Priorities Plan:
The law allows the government to formulate an Investment Priorities
Plan (IPP) that identifies priority activities for foreign investments.
Registered enterprises engaged in IPP-listed activities may be entitled to
additional incentives.
7. Land Ownership:
The law specifies the conditions under which foreign investors can own
land in the Philippines, particularly in the context of industrial,
commercial, residential, and other purposes.
8. Repatriation of Capital and Profits:
Foreign investors are generally granted the right to repatriate their
capital and profits subject to certain conditions and procedures.
9. Employment of Foreign Nationals:
The employment of foreign nationals by registered enterprises is
addressed, including guidelines on the issuance of employment permits.
10. Dispute Resolution:
Mechanisms for the resolution of disputes involving foreign investors
are outlined in the law.
11. Implementation by Investment Promotions Agencies:
The law designates the Board of Investments (BOI) and the Philippine
Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) as the primary agencies responsible
for the implementation of the Foreign Investment Act.
It's important to note that laws can be amended or updated, so it's advisable to check
with official government sources or consult legal professionals for the most current
information on the Foreign Investment Act (R.A. 7042).