Subido Pagente Certeza Mendoza & Binay (SPCMB Law Offices)

             Founded on the mission and vision of its pillars, Dean Ponciano D. M. Subido† and Hon. Jejomar C. Binay, The Law Firm of Subido Pagente Certeza Mendoza & Binay (SPCMB) provides personalized quality service to its clients and offers prompt legal advice on a cost-effective basis.

             SPCMB includes Daniel C. Subido, Martin C. Subido, Maribert Q. Pagente*, Claro F. Certeza*, Ma. Rosa Mystica D.J. Mendoza, Ma. Joycelyn L. Guirnalda, Joseph J.R. Castillo, Maria Patricia L. Alvarez, Jennifer T. Ong, Paula Katrina L. Nora, Princesita Pasana-Turgano, Mary Christine Charisse G. Catre, and Jose Julius R. Castro as Partners; Sarah Jeane P. Cardona and Jose Antonio A. Certeza as Senior Associates; Juan Paolo D. Lorica*, Harris U. Sandigan, Mary Camille L. De Mesa, Aimee Nicole L. Oliveros, Czesca Angelica P. Dela Rama, Giann G. Obana, Jasper James L. Valencia, Fe B. Evangelista, Esabelle Gillian G. Catameo, and Crispin Antonio R. Garcia III as Junior Associates, with Prof. Ruben F. Balane†, as Of Counsel. It currently holds office in the country’s premier financial district, Makati City.

             SPCMB offers its clients responsive and results-oriented representation and seeks to facilitate its clients’ business interests and strives to resolve controversies at the earliest opportune time. It is a highly focused law office that represents a broad range of individual, private and publicly listed business clients, local and multinational clients. SPCMB’s experienced attorneys devote personal attention to each of their clients' legal needs and matters and provide consistent high quality and integrity in their work.

SPCMB strives to prevent the costs, delay, and aggravation associated with litigation, though at times unavoidable, to protect the clients’ interests.

* On official leave
† Deceased

PRACTICE AREAS

ANTI-TRUST AND COMPETITION LAW
            SPCMB provides comprehensive guidance on Philippine competition regulations, covering fair trade laws, anti-competitive behavior, and merger control. The firm represents clients in investigations by the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and other regulatory bodies, offering strategic prosecution or defense in cases of alleged anti-competitive conduct. SPCMB’s goal is to help clients navigate competition laws effectively, ensuring faithful compliance with competitive laws while fostering sustainable growth.

BANKING AND FINANCE
            SPCMB provides legal opinions concerning debtors' and creditors' rights as they pertain to financings, financial restructurings, leveraged buyouts, and structuring workouts and turnarounds as well as those dealing with Philippine tax issues.

CORPORATE AND BUSINESS LAW
            SPCMB has broad experience forming corporations, advising new businesses, and providing corporate maintenance in order to preserve the limited liability aspects of the corporate form. SPCMB also represents partnerships, limited partnerships, and individuals doing business in the non-corporate form. Lawyers of SPCMB regularly attend meetings of the clients' Shareholders and Board of Directors in order to offer legal counsel and record the minutes thereof as Secretary. Lawyers of SPCMB have acted as general corporate counsel to numerous clients ranging in size, from small start-up companies to large mature companies, including publicly traded corporations. SPCMB advises these companies on diverse legal issues including corporate financing and secured lending, mergers and acquisitions including due diligence review of target companies, protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights, executive compensation, employment law, buy-sell agreements, implementation of employee stock option programs, commercial contracts, real property and equipment leases, business development and the fiduciary obligations of the Board of Directors and corporate officers.

MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS
            SPCMB guides businesses through mergers, acquisitions, and corporate restructuring with a strong emphasis on due diligence, regulatory compliance, and seamless integration. The firm advises buyers, sellers, and investors on share and asset acquisitions, joint ventures, and cross-border transactions while ensuring full compliance with the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and other regulatory authorities. Whether structuring a strategic merger or defending against a hostile takeover, SPCMB delivers tailored legal solutions that align with each client’s objectives. With a dedicated legal team, SPCMB ensures every transaction is executed with precision and confidence.

ENERGY
          SPCMB delivers comprehensive legal support in the energy sector, guiding clients through regulatory compliance, project development, and transactions across renewable and conventional energy sources. The firm advises energy companies, investors, and developers on navigating industry regulations, securing permits, and structuring joint ventures or power purchase agreements. SPCMB also represents clients in disputes involving energy contracts, environmental compliance, and government regulations. Through close collaboration with industry stakeholders, SPCMB develops innovative legal strategies that foster growth, ensure compliance, and support the evolving energy landscape.

TECHNOLOGY, MEDIA AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS
          SPCMB offers expert legal counsel in Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT), guiding clients through the evolving regulatory landscape of digital platforms, data privacy, intellectual property, and emerging technologies. The firm advises tech companies, media enterprises, and telecom providers on compliance, contracts, licensing, and dispute resolution. SPCMB also addresses legal challenges in cybersecurity, e-commerce, digital content, and telecommunications regulations. Leveraging deep industry knowledge, SPCMB delivers strategic legal solutions that empower clients to innovate while maintaining regulatory compliance.

INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC UTILITIES
             SPCMB delivers strategic legal support in Infrastructure, Transportation, and Public Utilities, guiding clients through project development, regulatory compliance, and risk management. The firm advises on contracts, permitting, financing, and dispute resolution for large-scale projects, including roads, railways, airports, seaports, and energy facilities. SPCMB represents clients in negotiations with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and private sector stakeholders to ensure compliance with Philippine laws and industry standards. With a focus on aligning legal strategies with business objectives, SPCMB helps clients navigate complex regulations while ensuring projects progress efficiently and successfully.

PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT AND REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
             SPCMB offers comprehensive legal support for property development and real estate transactions, assisting clients in navigating the complexities of land acquisition, project development, leasing, and sales. The firm advises real estate developers, investors, and corporations on regulatory compliance, due diligence, contract negotiations, and financing arrangements. SPCMB ensures that transactions are structured efficiently and in full compliance with Philippine property laws, mitigating risks and safeguarding clients’ interests. Whether managing large-scale developments, commercial leases, or residential property sales, SPCMB delivers strategic legal solutions that facilitate seamless transactions and successful project execution.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT
          SPCMB specializes in effective crisis management for individuals and organizations confronted with critical legal and regulatory challenges. With a wealth of experience in navigating intricate political, legal, and corporate issues, SPCMB is dedicated to providing expert guidance that safeguards the clients' rights, interests and reputation. SPCMB supports clients in preparing for any inquiries, managing media sensitivities, and reducing legal and reputational risks. SPCMB’s proactive and strategic representation ensures compliance with any government investigations while protecting clients from exposure to any liabilities.

DATA PRIVACY & PROTECTION
          SPCMB likewise offers comprehensive advice and assistance to clients on data privacy regulatory or compliance matters. It can conduct company audits to determine regulatory red flags or compliance issues and recommend remedial measures to comply with the Data Privacy Law and its Implementing Rules.

ELECTION
          SPCMB has guided and represented local and national political candidates in pre- and post-election matters and controversies. It has also acted as counsel for the accreditation of several local political parties and party-list organizations with the Commission on Election (Comelec). It has also successfully appeared before the Comelec, the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal, and the Presidential Electoral Tribunal on election controversies including disqualification of candidates and election protests.

FAMILY AND MATRIMONIAL RELATIONS
          SPCMB recognizes that family law matters require both legal expertise and compassionate guidance. The firm provides comprehensive support on a wide range of family-related legal issues, including declaration of nullity of marriage, annulment of marriage, legal separations, child custody, adoption, settlement of estate, wills, property division, and spousal support. SPCMB also handles sensitive cases involving domestic violence and paternity disputes with discretion and care. Understanding the emotional and financial impact of family conflicts, SPCMB offers mediation services to facilitate amicable resolutions while remaining prepared to vigorously advocate for its clients’ cause in court as a last resort. SPCMB is committed to achieving resolutions that uphold clients’ rights, preserve their best interests, and foster long-term stability.

FRANCHISING
          SPCMB is the pioneer in franchise law practice. It has extensive experience in drafting franchise agreements, crafting legal strategies to address franchisee compliance issues, retro-fitting franchise agreements to address client specific requirements, and rendering general legal advice to clients on the subject.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
          SPCMB counsels clients in the development of proprietary information protection systems, protection of trade secrets, and the use and enforcement of confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements. SPCMB assists clients with applications for copyright and trademark protection before the Intellectual Property Office. SPCMB represents both plaintiffs and defendants in patent, copyright, trade secret, trademark and mask rights litigation. When required, SPCMB assists clients in the enforcement of the client’s intellectual property rights including, but not limited to, conducting and implementing seizure proceedings before the regular courts in coordination with law enforcement agencies.

IMMIGRATION
          SPCMB offers comprehensive advice and assistance to corporations and individuals on immigration law issues, as well as processing of visa applications for officers and employees of multinational corporations.

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT
          SPCMB advises clients in a broad range of industries on matters pertaining to labor standards, relations, regulatory compliance, administrative processes and disciplinary measures and have successfully represented clients in arbitration, discipline, illegal dismissal cases, and a host of other issues pertaining to employment before the proper regional arbitration branch of the National Labor Relations Commission, the Commission proper, and the courts. The Firm actively represents clients from the manufacturing, retail, BPO, IT, maritime, and various other industries; and regularly assists clients in drafting different types of employment agreements and collective bargaining agreements, ensuring maximum possible protection of the clients and compliance with labor laws.

LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION
          SPCMB assists clients in developing and executing strategies for simple and complex litigation before the regular trial courts, quasi-judicial bodies and the appellate courts. Led by its strong team of trial attorneys, SPCMB has successfully appeared in the prosecution and defense of criminal cases before the Office of the Prosecutors, Office of the Ombudsman, the regular trial courts, Sandiganbayan, Court of Tax Appeals, Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court; civil litigation before the regular trial courts up to the appellate courts, including petitions for annulment, enforcement of contracts and recovery of damages; commercial litigation before the trial courts, including intra-corporate cases, petitions for corporate rehabilitation, and petitions for appointment of receivers or management committee; commercial litigation before the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including petitions for dissolution of corporations.

CIVIL LITIGATION
          SPCMB delivers skilled representation in civil litigation, handling disputes across various industries and legal matters. The firm advocates for clients in breach of contract cases, property disputes, tort claims, and other civil controversies before trial and appellate courts, as well as in arbitration and administrative proceedings. SPCMB develops strategic litigation approaches tailored to each case, prioritizing efficient resolution while remaining fully prepared to litigate aggressively when necessary. Recognizing that every dispute is unique, SPCMB employs a balanced approach that integrates negotiation, mediation, and litigation, ensuring the most effective path to resolution. With a commitment to skillful advocacy and adaptability, SPCMB protects clients’ interests in every legal forum.

CRIMINAL LITIGATION
          SPCMB delivers strategic prosecution and defense services for individuals and corporations instituting or facing criminal proceedings. The firm handles a wide range of cases, including fraud, cybercrimes, and violent offenses, crafting strong legal strategies tailored to each client’s needs. SPCMB provides diligent representation at all stages of criminal litigation, from investigation to trial and appeals, working to safeguard clients' rights and secure favorable outcomes. With extensive knowledge of the Philippine justice system, SPCMB offers strategic legal counsel, ensuring that every client receives the highest level of protection and due process.

ARBITRATION AND ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
          SPCMB has a proven track record in arbitration and alternative dispute resolution (ADR), offering clients cost-effective and efficient solutions to resolve disputes outside the courtroom. Beyond arbitration, the firm specializes in mediation, conciliation, and other ADR methods, ensuring amicable resolutions whenever possible. SPCMB assists clients in negotiating settlements that align with their business objectives, helping them avoid prolonged and costly litigation. With recognized expertise in arbitration and ADR, the firm has extensive experience handling complex disputes across various industries, including commercial contracts, construction, and investment conflicts.

ADMINISTRATIVE/QUASI-JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS
          SPCMB represents clients in administrative and quasi-judicial proceedings before government agencies, regulatory bodies, and tribunals. The firm provides strategic legal counsel in matters involving licensing, compliance, disciplinary actions, procurement disputes, and regulatory investigations. SPCMB advocate for clients in hearings and appeals, ensuring due process and the protection of their rights. SPCMB ensures that clients effectively navigate the complexities of administrative law, helping them achieve compliance and resolve disputes efficiently.

MARITIME LAW
          SPCMB specializes in cargo-related disputes and marine insurance claims. It is actively expanding its practice to include shipping and navigation, pollution and environmental protection, maritime accidents and injuries, maritime labor and regulatory compliance and dispute resolution. The firm assists clients ensuring that their rights and interests are protected under both Philippine and international maritime laws, rules and regulations. SPCMB provides proactive legal support, equipping clients with the strategies needed to navigate maritime complexities and resolve disputes effectively.

MINING
          SPCMB provides legal counseling to mining companies or investors on matters pertaining to mining tenements, national and local governmental requirements and compliance. It prepares applications for exploration permits and mineral agreements. SPCMB provides the appropriate company or joint venture structures and operators agreement that would best suit the needs of its clients.

PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
          SPCMB offers comprehensive advice and assistance in structuring various Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) involving a diverse range of projects such as mass transportation, hospitals, information technology solutions and livelihood. SPCMB also provides legal services related to project finance, public tenders, project agreements, and contract implementation and compliance of privately and/or publicly funded projects.

TAXATION
          SPCMB advises individuals and corporations on both national and local tax issues and aids clients in taking advantage of tax incentives offered by the Philippine Government. SPCMB has represented clients in tax controversies and disputes as well as compromise settlements with the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, Department of Finance, local governments and other tax authorities. Also, SPCMB handles a variety of tax queries for clients every year, including the tax consequences of franchise agreements, consignment contracts as well as the implications of tax treaties.

PARTNERS

             DEAN JEJOMAR C BINAY is the former Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines. He is a human rights lawyer, a civic leader, an author, a public servant, and currently, the Dean Emeritus of the University of Makati, College of Law.

As a human rights lawyer, he was a founding member, along with Senators Joker P. Arroyo and Rene A.V. Saguisag of the Movement of Attorneys for Brotherhood, Integrity and Nationalism, Inc. (MABINI) that fearlessly fought for victims of Martial Law. He also became Chairman - Manila Chapter of the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) and served as Legal Counsel of the August Twenty One Movement (ATOM).

As a civic leader, he has been the National President of Boy Scouts of the Philippines since 1998; Chairman, Finance Sub Committee, and Treasurer, Scout Foundation Management Committee, of World Scout Organization-Asia-Pacific Region; Chairman (1992-1993, 1995-1998) of the Metro Manila Mayors’ League; Vice-President (1993-1997), Executive Committee, of the Network of Local Authorities; Member of the Rotary Club of Makati; Member, Board of Trustees of the Jeepney Drivers’ Foundation, Inc.; President of the Naval Reservists of the Phils. (NAVRESPHIL); Founding Member and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Makati Fire Safety Foundation, Inc.; Charter Member and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Construction Safety Foundation, Inc.; Chairman of the Philippine Tuberculosis Society- Metro Manila Cities & Mun. Division; and Chairman of the Bagong Katipunan Foundation, Inc.

As an author, he published the books Rambotito, Basurero, Usisero, Atbp. in 1993 and Governance Matters (Selected Writings and Speeches) in 2005. His life as a public servant began when he was the first local executive appointed by President Corazon Aquino after the EDSA Revolution. He also held the position of Governor of the Metropolitan Manila Commission prior to his election as Mayor of Makati. He served as Mayor of Makati for six (6) terms from 1988 to 2010. He also served as Chairman of the Metro Manila Peace and Order Council (1990-1992) Metro Manila Development Authority (1998-2001). He is a Colonel (0-125795) (Reservist) of the AF Philippine Navy (Marines); Commanding Officer of the 202nd Philippine Marine Reserve Battalion; and Co-Chairman of the Task Force on Traffic Improvement and Management for Metro Manila and Suburbs (TRAFFIM) and the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC).

For his years in service, he was a recipient of numerous awards and commendations. Among them, the Silver Lion Award by His Excellency, S. R. Nathan, President of the Republic of Singapore and Chief Scout of Singapore Scouts Association on May 08, 2008 during the Good Service Awards 2007 Investiture; 2008 People of the Year Awardee of the People Asia Magazine on January 15, 2009; Distinguished Achievement Award by the National Defense College of the Philippines and NDCP Alumni Association, Inc. on August 10, 2007; Outstanding Public Official and Great Achiever by the Consumers Union of the Philippines on October 28, 2005; Centennial Medal of Honor by the Rotary International June 4, 2005; and Leadership Award (Presidential Citation) by Alpha Phi Omega International Philippines, Inc. on 6 October 2002.

His penchant for public service is perhaps a product of his molding as a scholar of the Filipino people. He graduated high school and obtained his BA Political Science degree in the University of the Philippines. He finished his Bachelor of Laws degree in the same university as a working student. He is also a holder of a Master’s degree in National Security Administration (Graduated with Honors) from the National Defense College of the Philippines; Master’s in Management from the Philippine Christian University; Diploma in Land Use Planning from University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning; Diploma in Environment and Natural Resources Management from the UP-Open University. He also finished the Senior Executive Fellows Program in Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government 1992; and the Top Management Program of the Asian Institute of Management in 1996. He was also able to academically complete his Master’s in Public Administration, Major in Local Government Management in the University of the Philippines and his Master of Laws in the University of Santo Tomas.

             DEAN PONCIANO D M SUBIDO† is a holder of AB-BSE, LLB and two (2) LLM degrees. He was a Professional Lecturer and Bar Reviewer in Constitutional Law and Remedial Law.

             He was Dean of the College of Law of Adamson University for more than two (2) decades. He was a member of the City Council of Manila where he served as the Majority Floor Leader. He was the founding President and Chairman of the Metro Manila Councilors League as well as the President Emeritus of the Philippine Councilors League.

             He was also the founding president of the ASEAN Law Schools Association and the Philippine Jury Movement. He likewise served as President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines – Manila II Chapter, Manuel L. Quezon University Faculty Club and the Manila Downtown Lions Club.

             Through the years, Dean Subido likewise held the following positions: Assistant to the President for Administration of Adamson University, National Committee Chairman for Constitutional Amendments of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Philippine delegate to the Local Government Assembly in Germany, Vice President of the Manuel L. Quezon University Alumni Association (School of Law). He also authored the book entitled “It’s Time . . . Community Justice (A Book on the Jury System for the Philippines).”

             In 2006, Dean Subido was awarded as the Most Outstanding Alumnus of the Manuel L. Quezon University, School of Law.

             PROF RUBEN F BALANE† holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Ateneo de Manila University and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law, graduating cum laude and Salutatorian in 1966. He placed 2nd in the 1966 Philippine Bar examinations.

Prof. Balane was a Professor of Law at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law and the U.P. College of Law, where he holds professorial chairs in both institutions, i.e., the Justice J.B.L. Reyes Professorial Chair in Civil Law at the U.P. College of Law from 1977 to 1984, the Chief Justice Ramon Avanceña Chair in Civil Law at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law from 1999 to 2003, and the Justice J.B.L. Reyes Professorial Chair in Civil Law at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law from 2003 until his passing. He was also a Member of the Corps of Professors, Department of Civil Law, serving as its Chair, at the Philippine Judicial Academy. He was likewise a lecturer at the U.P. Law Center, the Center for Continuing Legal Education and Research of the Ateneo Law School, and various other providers of the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE). He also served as a Member of the Board of Editorial Consultants, Journal of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines.

Prof. Balane was an Examiner in Civil Law during the 1986 Bar Examinations. He was also a Member and Coordinator of the Civil Code Revision Project, University of the Philippines Law Center as well as the Faculty Editor of the Philippine Law Journal from 1973-1976.

Prof. Balane is the author of Jottings and Jurisprudence in Civil Law: Succession, (1998, Rev. Ed. 2002), which was a recipient of the Centenary Book Awards of the Supreme Court of the Philippines in June 2001, and Jottings and Jurisprudence in Civil Law: Obligations and Contracts (2018), published by Central Professional Books. He also edited J.B.L.: Ipse Loquitur: A Collection of Essays and Lectures by Justice Jose B.L. Reyes. Prof. Balane speaks English, Tagalog, Bicolano, Spanish, French, Italian, German and Latin.

In 2011, Prof. Balane joined SPCMB as of Counsel until his passing.

             DANIEL C SUBIDO has been in the practice of law since 1999. He specializes in Corporate, Banking and Finance. He counts, among his clients, the Multinational Bancorporation Group of Companies, a prestigious institution that includes one of the oldest Investment Houses in the Philippines, with quasi-banking and trust license, i.e. Multinational Investment Bancorporation. He likewise has extensive experience in investment banking, legal documentation of trusts, realty, finance transactions and mining investments. He is a Professor of Law, and an active member of the Legal Management Council of the Philippines and the Rotary Club in Makati City.

From 2010 to 2015, Mr. Subido served as the Deputy Secretary General of the Philippine Housing and Urban Development Council (HUDC) and Chief Legal Counsel for the Office of the Vice President.

             MARTIN C SUBIDO, CPA holds a Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law where he received the Second Honors Silver Medal (Ranked No. 3 in his Batch). He is also a Certified Public Accountant having obtained his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy degree from De La Salle University where he was a consistent member of the Dean’s List. Prior to joining SPCMB, Mr. Subido was an Associate in Quisumbing Torres Law Firm (Baker & McKenzie) where he specialized in Banking and Finance. He later on joined the Villaraza & Angangco Law Offices (formerly Carpio Villaraza & Cruz Law Offices) where, as Senior Associate, he handled Corporate and Tax Litigation, Special Projects and enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights.

Mr. Subido has an extensive experience in incorporating corporations and registering securities with the SEC for local and foreign investors, as well as listing said securities with the Philippine Stock Exchange. He has likewise provided continuing legal management and corporate housekeeping for private and publicly listed corporations.

             MARIBERT Q PAGENTE holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of San Carlos. He finished his AB Political Science as an academic scholar of the Dr. Neher Scholarship Grant from the United States of America. He has devoted himself to the promotion of corporate good governance and is an active member of the Legal Management Council of the Philippines, (LMCP), the premiere association of legal management practitioners in the country. His practice area is in the field of Corporate Law and Family Law. He is also a noted resource speaker in Trusts and Estate Planning. Mr. Pagente is currently on official leave from SPCMB as he acts as the Head of the Business Permits and Licensing Office of Makati City.

             CLARO F CERTEZA graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law where he obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree. He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the East. He is a member of the faculty of the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law and the College of Law of the Lyceum University where he lectures on Civil Law, Labor Law and Franchise Law.

Mr. Certeza has been in the practice of law since 1984. He started as a litigation lawyer where he focused on criminal and civil cases. In 1992, he joined the Jollibee Foods Corporation (Jollibee), the biggest fast-food chain in the country where he concurrently served as Vice President for Legal and Vice President for Corporate Affairs. He was later elected Director of Jollibee and also a member of its Management Committee. After he retired from Jollibee, Mr. Certeza resumed private practice and acted as legal counsel to Fuji Xerox Philippines and various fast-food companies such as Julie’s Franchise Corporation, Aristocrat, Solerex, Crystal Clear, and Del Sol Foods Corporation, owners of the Goodah! Restaurant chain. His area of practice is Corporate Law, Criminal and Civil Litigation, Intellectual Property, and Franchising. Mr. Certeza is currently on official leave from SPCMB as he was appointed as the City Administrator of Makati City.

             ROSA MYSTICA J MENDOZA obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law where she was a consistent member of the Dean’s List and finished in the top 30 of her batch. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of the Philippines.

From 2001 to 2007, Ms. Mendoza was a Senior Associate of the Villaraza & Angangco Law Offices (formerly, Carpio Villaraza & Cruz Law Offices) where she gained extensive experience in civil and criminal litigation, appellate practice, and corporate housekeeping, as well as undertaking due diligence reviews for various clients.

In 2007, Ms. Mendoza became a partner in SPCMB and specialized in handling the litigation of a variety of cases, special projects for clients, estate planning, review of government contracts, and administrative law matters for clients.

From 2010 to 2016, Ms. Mendoza served as the Chief-of-Staff of former Congresswoman Mar-Len Abigail S. Binay.

             JOYCELYN L GUIRNALDA is a graduate of the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law, graduating 24th in her batch in year 2000. She holds a double degree in Psychology and Business Management from the De La Salle University where she was a consistent member of the Dean’s List.

For nearly a decade after law school, or from October 2000 to May 2010, Ms. Guirnalda honed and sharpened her litigation skills at the Carpio Villaraza & Cruz Law Offices (now known as Villaraza & Angangco Law Offices). Working for a firm known for its expertise in litigation and dispute resolution, Ms. Guirnalda represented various local and multinational clients involved in diverse and complex corporate, commercial, civil, criminal, labor, and intellectual property litigation before quasi-judicial agencies, trial and appellate courts.

Ms. Guirnalda then joined the corporate world as Assistant Vice President of BDO Unibank, Inc. from May 2010 until March 2014, where she was the Team Head for the Remedial Management - Asset Recovery Litigation Unit handling the Corporate and Commercial cases of BDO. As Team Head for one of the biggest banks in the Philippines, she managed the litigation of the bank’s cases before trial courts, quasi-judicial agencies, appellate courts, including international arbitration cases before the SIAC. Together with her team of lawyers and paralegals, she likewise prepared and reviewed transactional documents including commercial contracts and provided legal advice to the Bank’s management.

Before joining SPCMB, or from March 2014 to June 2016, Ms. Guirnalda held the Senior GDN Counsel position at Accenture, Inc., a multinational IT, Consulting, and BPO company with worldwide presence. At Accenture, Ms. Guirnalda handled the legal, regulatory, and compliance matters of the delivery network of Accenture Philippines with focus on its technology, digital, and consulting business. Aside from this, she also handled data privacy compliance matters and review of multifaceted contracts.

Ms. Guirnalda joined SPCMB as Partner in July 2016 and is currently the Head of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department. She handles significant and complex litigation cases at all levels for a diverse clientele which includes high-profile individuals, local and multinational companies in a wide variety of industries. She is a PDRCI-Trained Arbitrator, File Counsel, and Tribunal Secretary.

Ms. Guirnalda is currently SPCMB’s Managing Partner.

             JOSEPH JOEL R CASTILLO graduated from San Beda University in 1998 where he obtained his Bachelor of Laws Degree. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree major in Political Science from De La Salle University.

Mr. Castillo has extensive experience in the field of Election Law, Criminal and Civil Litigation Law, Labor Law and Immigration Law. Prior to joining SPCMB, he was an Associate in The Law Firm of V. E. Del Rosario and Partners from 1999 to 2004. Concurrent with his practice of law in 2004 to 2010 as Partner of Lazaro Castillo and Dela Cruz Law Offices, he was the Consultant for Political Affairs of Laguna Governor Teresita S. Lazaro. He was also a Senior Legal Counsel of the Philippine Trade and General Workers’ Organization (PTGWO) under the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) from 2013 to 2014. PTGWO and TUCP are the biggest labor federation and labor congress in the Philippines, respectively. He was also a law professor teaching Election Laws, Legal Ethics and Transportation Laws in Philippine Christian University.

Mr. Castillo was a three-term Commissioner of the Commission on Bar Discipline of the Integrated Bar of Philippines. He is currently a member of Board of Directors of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Batangas Chapter.

Mr. Castillo joined SPCMB as Partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department in 2016.

             MARIA PATRICIA L ALVAREZ graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Economics and obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2002. Prior to joining SPCMB, Ms. Alvarez was a Senior Associate at Escueta Yasay & Partners from March 2008 to August 2013 and an Associate at Tan Acut Lopez & Pison from November 2002 to March 2008, where she gained extensive experience in litigation appearing before various judicial, quasi-judicial and appellate courts.

In 2013, Ms. Alvarez joined SPCMB as a Senior Associate and is now a Partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department.

She is currently a director and the Auditor of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Makati Chapter. She also holds a teaching position as a Supervising Lawyer at the University of the Philippines Office of Legal Aid.

             JENNIFER T ONG graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2003 with a degree in Legal Management and obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2007. She placed 2nd in the 2007 Philippine Bar Examinations. Prior to joining SPCMB, Ms. Ong was an Associate at Lim Ocampo Leynes Law Offices from 2007 to 2009 and an Associate at Esguerra and Blanco Law Offices from 2009 to 2011, where she gained extensive experience in the fields of corporate and tax law. In 2011, Ms. Ong joined SPCMB as a Senior Associate and is now a Partner in the Corporate and Special Projects Department.

Ms. Ong specializes in special projects, corporate financing and secured lending, deal structuring, commercial transactions and contracts, contract review and negotiation, joint ventures and M&A including due diligence, as well as public-private partnerships, which she has undertaken for local and foreign clients.

             PAULA KATRINA L NORA graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2003 with a degree in Political Science minor in Economics and obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law in 2007.

Ms. Nora was a Junior Associate of SPCMB from 2008 to 2010 and an Associate of Del Rosario & Del Rosario Law Offices from 2010 to 2011, where she handled corporate, tax, intellectual property, labor, maritime and litigation matters. In 2011, she joined Nava & Associates as a Senior Associate, where she specialized in corporate law. In 2013, Ms. Nora rejoined SPCMB as a Senior Associate for the Corporate and Special Projects Department, where she gained extensive experience in corporate and commercial law.

Ms. Nora is now a Partner in the Corporate and Special Projects Department. Her practice areas include local and cross-border acquisitions, mergers, disposition of assets, legal due diligence audit, corporate organizations and restructuring, dissolution, investment projects, joint ventures, capital markets and securities offering, registration and listing of securities, corporate governance and housekeeping, contract negotiation, review and documentation, corporate regulatory compliance, and data privacy.

             PRINCESITA PASANA-TURGANO graduated from the Far Eastern University - De La Salle University Juris Doctor-Master’s of Business Administration dual degree program. She was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2010.

In 2012, Ms. Turgano joined SPCMB as a Junior Associate for the Corporate and Special Projects Department. As a Junior Associate, she was part of the team that handled the listing applications of publicly listed companies such as Agrinurture, Inc. and Greenergy Holdings Incorporated. Her work likewise included the preparation of company contracts, including licensing agreements, non-disclosure agreements, terms of service, commercial leases, sales contracts, memorandum of agreements and management agreements.

In 2015, Ms. Turgano was promoted as a Senior Associate for the Corporate and Special Projects Department. As a Senior Associate, she managed corporate retainer accounts for clients in various fields of business. Her work included routine consultations; participation in negotiations, review or documentation of contracts and other agreements; preparation of opinions and rendition of legal advice; preparation of compliance matters; verification with government agencies such as but not limited to the SEC, Bureau of Internal Revenue and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. She likewise performed corporate secretary work for various companies, including companies engaged in real estate, trading, and stock brokerage businesses.

Ms. Turgano is now a Partner in the Corporate and Special Projects Department where she specializes in Capital Markets, Corporate and M&A, Real Estate and Construction, Intellectual Property, and TMT.

             MARY CHRISTINE CHARISSE G CATRE graduated from the University of the Philippines - Diliman in 2004 with a degree in Public Administration and obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree from San Beda College of Law in 2008.

Prior to joining SPCMB, Ms. Catre was an Associate at Reyes, Francisco, Tecson & Associates Law Offices from 2009 to 2010 and an Associate at Del Rosario & Del Rosario Law Offices from 2010 to 2013, where she had extensive experience in the fields of maritime, labor, intellectual property and corporate litigation.

In 2013, Ms. Catre joined SPCMB as a Senior Associate for the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department. As Senior Associate in the Firm, Ms. Catre handles a variety of cases before the trial courts, and higher courts such as the Court of Appeals, Court of Tax Appeals, Sandiganbayan, and the Supreme Court, as well as cases before administrative and quasi-judicial bodies, including, but not limited to the National Labor Relations Commission, Commission on Audit and Commission on Elections.

Ms. Catre is now a Partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department and is a PDRCI-Trained Arbitrator and File Counsel.

             JOSE JULIUS R. CASTROgraduated from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2004 with a degree in Management Economics and obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree from the San Beda College of Law in 2013.

Prior to taking up law, Mr. Castro managed his family’s businesses, specifically several branches of The Old Spaghetti House. He also served as a consultant for Congressman Ronald Cosalan.

In 2014, Mr. Castro joined SPCMB as a Junior Associate, and is now a Partner for the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department.

Mr. Castro served as the Assistant Corporate Secretary of the United Nationalist Alliance from 2014 up to 2016.

On 7 July 2021, he was appointed as one of the Commissioners of the Commission on Bar Discipline of the Integrated Bar of Philippines.

ASSOCIATES

             SARAH JEANE P CARDONA graduated from the San Beda College with a degree in Legal Management and obtained her Bachelor of Laws from the San Beda College of Law. She was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2013.

Prior to joining SPCMB, Ms. Cardona was a Senior Tax Associate at SGV & Co. (Ernst & Young Phils.). Thereafter, from 2013 to 2018, she was an Associate at Puno and Figura Law Offices (formerly, Puno and Peñarroyo Law Offices), where she had extensive experience in the fields of corporate practice, labor, tax, and litigation.

In 2020, Ms. Cardona joined SPCMB as a Senior Associate for the Corporate and Special Projects Department.

             JOSE ANTONIO A CERTEZA graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2010 with a degree in Political Science and obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law. He was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2017.

In 2016, Mr. Certeza joined SPCMB as a Junior Associate, and is currently a Senior Associate for the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department. As Senior Associate in the Firm, Mr. Certeza handles trial cases pending before the trial courts and higher courts such as the Court of Appeals, Court of Tax Appeals, Sandiganbayan, and the Supreme Court. He is also extensively involved in the Firm's Election Law practice, particularly, but not limited to the handling of election campaigns, registration of political parties, election controversies and cases before the COMELEC, and other Electoral Tribunals.

In 2023, Mr. Certeza was appointed as an Investigating Commissioner of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines' Committee on Bar Discipline. In this role, he resolves cases involving possible violations of the Code of Professional Responsibility, filed against members of the Philippine Bar.

             JUAN PAOLO D LORICA* obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Philippines (Diliman) in 2014. He was awarded the Dean’s Service Award. For his undergraduate he finished Legal Management in San Beda College with Academic Distinction and a cum laude’s grade point average.

Prior to joining SPCMB, he worked for then Congresswoman Mar-len Abigail S. Binay in the House of Representatives. He also served briefly as Alternate Assistant Corporate Secretary for the Local Water Utilities Administration.

In 2020, he obtained his Master of Science (MSc.) degree specializing in Development and International Business from Queen Mary University of London as a Chevening scholar.

Mr. Lorica is currently on official leave from SPCMB as he serves as the Chief-of-Staff of Hon. Luis N. Campos, the Representative of the 2nd District of Makati in the Philippines’ House of Representatives.

             HARRIS U SANDIGAN graduated from the University of the Philippines - Diliman with a degree in BA Philosophy, cum laude. He obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the same university in 2021 and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2022, with exemplary performance.

In 2022, Mr. Sandigan joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate for the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department.

             MARY CAMILLE L DE MESA, CPA graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a degree in BS Accountancy and is a Certified Public Accountant. She obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Philippines - Diliman in 2021 and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2022.

In 2022, Ms. De Mesa joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate for the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department.

             AIMEE NICOLE L OLIVEROS, CPA graduated from De La Salle University with a degree in BS Accountancy, cum laude and is a Certified Public Accountant. She obtained her Juris Doctor degree cum laude from the University of the Philippines - Diliman in 2021 where she graduated as the Salutatorian of her batch and received the Dean’s Medal for Academic Excellence. She was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2022.

In 2022, Ms. Oliveros joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate for the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department. She is also a PDRCI-Trained Arbitrator.

             CZESCA ANGELICA P. DELA RAMA obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the San Beda University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Santo Tomas. She was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2025.

             In 2025, Ms. dela Rama joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate.

             GIANN G. OBANA obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Legal Management at De La Salle University. He obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law in 2024 and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2025.

             In 2025, Mr. Obana joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate.

             JASPER JAMES L. VALENCIA graduated from the De La Salle University with a degree in BS Applied Economics. He obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Philippines in 2024 and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2025.

             In 2025, Mr. Valencia joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate.

             FE B. EVANGELISTA graduated magna cum laude from St. Scholastica’s College, Manila in 2015 with a degree in Business Administration. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2024 and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2025.

             In 2025, Ms. Evangelista joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate.

             Esabelle Gillian G. Catameo is a lawyer admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2025. She obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy and International Relations from Ateneo de Manila University.

             In 2025, Ms. Catameo  joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate.

             CRISPIN ANTONIO R. GARCIA III graduated from the University of the Philippines - Diliman in 2020 with a degree in Business Administration, cum laude. He obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2024, and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2025.

             In 2025, Mr. Garcia joined SPCMB and is currently a Junior Associate.