Active since 1945, SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan is one of the most well-known names in the Filipino legal market and has established itself as one of the clear market leaders. The firm has offices in Manila, Davao, Cebu and Subic. 

In addition to advising on traditional banking matters, the firm has a focus on aviation financing, fintech and Islamic finance and is the only Philippine member of the Islamic Finance Network. Sectors of activity include transport, agriculture, energy, real estate, and food and beverage. 

Highlights  

The banking team was active on a range of mandates include advising Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) in the USD 500 million term loan facility agreement granted by the Bank of the Philippine Islands. The deal is significant given its size and potential contribution to the Philippine economy, specifically in the food and beverage market. 

In the capital markets area, the team advised Philippine Commercial Capital and SB Capital Investment in the issuing and offering of Security Bank Corporation’s peso denominated. This deal was the largest bond issuance to date of Security Bank Corporation. 

In the projects space, the team advised MGreen on its investment in listed solar energy SPNEC to develop solar and battery energy storage systems projects in the Philippines. This project will be one of the world largest solar projects.   

Another eye-catching mandate saw the firm advised SMC Mass Rail Transit 7, San Miguel and Universal LRT Corporation (BVI) on a secured term loan facility to partially finance the development, engineering, and construction of Metro Rail Transit Line 7 that will connect Metro Manila to the northern province of Bulacan. This is a public–private partnership (PPP) project with the Department of Transportation, procured under the country’s BOT Law, and was the first such variant of the BOT scheme in the country’s public transport system. 

Testimonials    

“Very professional and up to date in regulatory requirements.” (Capital market client) 

“Professionalism.” (Project finance client) 

Key clients 

Aboitiz, Manila Electric Company, Metro Pacific, Mitsubishi, San Miguel, BDO Capital & Investment, Bank of Commerce, China Bank Capital Corporation, SMC Mass Rail Transit 7, Frontier Tower Associates Philippines