Quisumbing Torres > Manila, Philippines > Firm Profile
Quisumbing Torres Offices
16TH FLOOR, ONE/NEO BUILDING
26TH STREET CORNER 3RD AVENUE, CRESCENT PARK WEST
BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, TAGUIG 1634
Philippines
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Quisumbing Torres > The Legal 500 Rankings
Philippines > Antitrust and competition Tier 1
The group at Quisumbing Torres maintains its strong reputation for handling complex matters relating to the antitrust elements of acquisitions and joint ventures. The team well-placed to assist both international and domestic corporations, with competition compliance and the determination of risk, in addition to handling complex cartel investigation cases. Alain Charles Veloso is noted for his ‘perfect approach’, while Michael Macapagal is considered ‘an expert in the field’ by clients. Promoted to partner in June 2024 Lara Camille Lee is a key name within the team. Maria Christina Macasaet-AcabanPractice head(s):
Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm is more than a law firm but has diversified and used their business development to offer other value added services that clients like us appreciate. We value their legal updates, networking events and sharing of research resources. They create opportunities for connection.’
‘Alain Charles Veloso is a certified rainmaker, always finding ways to introduce solutions to clients without any expectation of being engaged. His approach is perfect.’
‘Michael Macapagal is an expert in the field of pharma and dispute resolution. Always efficient and readily available when we need him, he offers comprehensive explanations on the next steps in complex litigation.’
Key clients
Alphabet
Allianz
GlaxoSmithKline
Prudential Corporation Asia
Shell Pilipinas Corporation
Universal Entertainment Corporation
Work highlights
- Assisted a Japanese conglomerate in securing a letter of non-coverage from the PCC to confirm that its proposed additional capital investment in its existing JV is not subject to mandatory notification.
- Advised a multinational super app on the antitrust aspect of its potential acquisition of the business of its competitor in the Philippines.
- Assisted a European healthcare company in a deep-dive analysis of its competition law compliance to determine any risk areas in conducting its operations.
Philippines > Capital markets Tier 1
The practice at Quisumbing Torres has experience assisting its diverse roster of clients with domestic and international matters, including equity and debt transactions, public M&A and corporate governance matters, securities-related issues and business restructurings and reorganisations. The group is particularly adept at advising financial institutions, which is Dennis QuinteroPractice head(s):
Alain Charles Veloso; Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban
Other key lawyers:
Dennis Quintero; Ramon Miguel Bacani; Lesley Mondez
Key clients
Allianz
Universal Entertainment Corporation
Prudential Corporation Asia
Manulife Philippines
KPMG AZSA LLC
Work highlights
- Assisted a leading online design and visual communication platform in connection with its application for securities registration exemption with the SEC in relation to its corporate reorganization and share swap.
- Assisted an industrial manufacturing company in its capital restructuring application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) to enable the company to re-list its shares with the SEC and PSE for trading.
Philippines > Corporate and M&A Tier 1
Quisumbing Torres’ group ‘always goes the extra mile’ when assisting its roster of clients, which features listed companies and multinational corporations. The team handles work ranging from the structuring of foreign investments and the creation of preparatory and ancillary agreements, to advising on sale and purchase agreements. Further, it advises on transactions including corporate reorganisations, joint ventures and M&A. Team head Maria Christina Macasaet-AcabanPractice head(s):
Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban
Other key lawyers:
Luisa Fernandez-Guina; Lesley Mondez; Charles Veloso; Julius Cervantes; Dennis Quintero; Lara Camille Lee
Testimonials
‘The team is accessible, easy to work with and they provide reliable and timely feedback. I appreciate the market updates as well which are based on industry developments.’
‘They have good rapport with clients, always go the extra mile. The lawyers are professional, responsive and relevant. Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban, Luisa Fernandez-Guina, Lesley Mondez and Charles Veloso are all stand-out.’
‘The individuals personally attend to critical issues from until they are resolved.’
‘The team is focused on issues and get things done on schedule.’
Key clients
Alphabet (Google Inc.)
Allianz
Changi Airport International Pte. Ltd.
GlaxoSmithKline
Prudential Corporation Asia (Prudential Asia)
Shell Pilipinas Corporation
Space Exploration Technologies Corporation
Universal Entertainment Corporation
Work highlights
- Assisted a multinational computer drive manufacturer and data storage company in the Philippine aspect of the global reorganization.
- Advised a global multinational specialty chemical company in its asset transfer pursuant to a global acquisition of a major conglomerate that produces construction products.
- Acted as counsel for buyer, a leading global financial services firm in connection with its acquisition of a technology company located in the USA.
Philippines > Dispute resolution Tier 1
The practice at Quisumbing Torres is well equipped to handle the range of high-value and high-stakes disputes, often in cross-jurisdictional contexts. It is helmed by Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr., who is noted for her ‘years of experience dealing with diverse issues and clients’ alongside Donemark Calimon. Key practitioner Ramon QuisumbingPractice head(s):
Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr.
Other key lawyers:
Ramon Quisumbing; Donemark Calimon; Michael Macapagal; Miguel Galvez; Marvin Masangkay; Dranyl Jared Amoroso; Camille Bianca Gatmaitan-Santos
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive and open to ideas from clients. They make us feel that they care about our business because they take the time to understand what our needs are and what we require as an organisation.’
‘Donemark Calimon and Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr. are very collaborative and available to assist. They provide high-value advice and strategy that comes from years of experience dealing with diverse issues and clients.’
‘The team was very thorough in approaching our dispute resolution case. It was very important from the onset to establish trust between parties, and facts to substantiate the merit of the case.’
‘They brought in a team with broad expertise to make sure that proper engagement with us, and coverage of the case, are done in a seamless and efficient manner.’
‘Transparent in sharing areas where an external counsel may be needed. This also manifested their industry network. The firm’s capability and expertise are way beyond the existing scope of engagement.’
‘A very professional and pleasant group of people. Strict professional decorum is a major plus.’
Key clients
Alphabet (Google Inc.)
China Harbour Engineering Company
Manulife Philippines
Shell Pilipinas Corporation
Work highlights
- Assisted a Belgian family-owned group of companies engaged in construction and maritime infrastructure in its dispute with a subsidiary of one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines.
- Assisted a multinational financial services company in a dispute and eventual settlement with a contractor regarding the interpretation of payment provisions in the Contract Agreement.
- Advised the Philippine affiliate of a multinational insurance company in Philippine law matters related to ongoing arbitration proceedings in Singapore relating to adjustments for the consideration of shares in a Share Purchase Agreement.
Philippines > Intellectual property Tier 1
The collective at Quisumbing Torres is well-placed to assist its noteworthy roster of clients which includes both domestic and multinational names in the protection of their IP, including in disputes contexts. New tech protection is a particular area of expertise for the team. Brand management and enforcement, patent protection and prosecution, and trade secrets protection matters all feature in the team’s workload. Divina Ilas-Panganiban oversees the department and has specialisms spanning IP, data and tech with expertise in TMT in particular; Panganiban is also a member of the Advisory Council for IP in the Philippines. Bienvenido Marquez III is a notable individual in the team, leading on many of its most prominent IP enforcement cases. Reena Mitra-Ventanilla is also standout.Practice head(s):
Divina Ilas-Panganiban
Other key lawyers:
Bienvenido Marquez III; Reena Mitra-Ventanilla; Frederick August Jose; Felicisimo Agas III
Testimonials
‘We have been working with Quisumbing Torres for more than 10 years. The legal work they do is both simple and complex, but all high value. What makes Quisumbing Torres’ team stand out is the consistent rendering of clear and concise legal advice, and its consistent trademark administrative support.’
‘Divina Ilas-Panganiban provides simple solutions to seemingly complex legal issues, especially on trademark licensing and enforcement matters. What I appreciate about Divina is her initiative in providing us with options on our trademark strategy to ensure that the same is consistent with our business objectives.’
‘On the administrative side, Divina ensures that all our needs are well taken care of and are addressed at the earliest time possible. We are fortunate that she is handling our portfolio.’
Key clients
GlaxoSmithKline
Alphabet
Shell
Universal Entertainment Corporation
L’Oreal
Mang Inasal Philippines, Inc
Work highlights
- Represented a multinational healthcare and beauty chain store in successfully prosecuting before the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center a complaint against the US-based registered owner of the domain name that is confusingly similar to the client’s registered trademarks.
- Managed the trademark portfolio of an American animation studio and some of its affiliates in the Philippines.
- Acted on behalf of luxury goods companies against sellers and distributors of counterfeit branded watches, jewellery, footwear, clothing, bags, ceramics, and other luxury products, having seized approximately $1m worth of infringing from six target locations.
Philippines > Labour and employment (including immigration) Tier 1
The group at Quisumbing Torres assists its extensive roster of corporate clients, and maintains its strong reputation for advising on alternative company structures and the impacts of such change on employees, the termination of employment contracts, and employment disputes, which are Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr.'s areas of specialism. The practice’s immigration work is overseen by Miguel Antonio Galvez and includes obtaining OECs from the Department of Migrant Workers. Patrick Henry Salazar and Gil Roberto ZerrudoPractice head(s):
Kenneth Chua
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive and open to ideas from clients. Unlike other law firms I’ve worked with, QT makes us feel that they care about our business because they take the time to understand what our needs are and what we require as an organisation.’
‘Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr. is very collaborative and available at all hours to respond to our requests for assistance. He provides high-value advice and strategy that comes from years of experience dealing with diverse issues and clients.’
‘In my view the team is collaborative and can be relied upon to be thorough in their advice.’
‘I partner with Patrick Henry Salazar and Gil Roberto Zerrudo. They are my trusted advisors who provide good guidance.’
Key clients
Alphabet
Google Inc.
GlaxoSmithKline
Chevron
SBA Communications Corporation
Work highlights
- Advised an e-commerce company on a weekly basis on its various employment-related issues and processes, such as employment termination, policy changes, pay queries, recruitment, leave benefits, other corrective action, major reorganizations and mass layoffs.
- Advised a US-based BPO company in carefully separating a high-ranking officer due to organizational changes among other reasons.
- Advised a global professional services firm on a regular basis on its various employment-related issues and processes, such as employment termination, policy changes, pay queries, recruitment, leave benefits, and other corrective actions.
Philippines > Projects and energy Tier 1
The team at Quisumbing Torres has notable experience representing its broad roster of clients on the full range of energy, mining and infrastructure projects. Advising on the financing aspects of projects forms a significant portion of the team’s workload. Further, it is well-equipped to assist with PPP schemes, PPA agreements and government procurement contracts, amongst other areas. Its clients span sectors from renewable energy and power, to mining, oil and gas, and petrochemicals. Dennis QuinteroPractice head(s):
Dennis Quintero
Other key lawyers:
Donemark Calimon; Michael Macapagal; Ramon Miguel Bacani; Ina Alexandra Dominguez
Key clients
APG Asset Management
Changi Airport International Pte. Ltd.
Graymont Limited
Shell Pilipinas Corporation
Repsol SA
Sankyu Southeast Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd.
SBA Communications Corporation
Work highlights
- Advised a leading global mining group in connection with the due diligence investigation into a Philippine mining company and its affiliates, and the Philippine Tampakan Copper-Gold Project.
- Advised a Japan-based power company on its joint venture with a power generation company relating to its hydropower portfolio in the Philippines.
- Assisting a global power and renewable energy and development platform regarding the acquisition of Philippines Rooftop Solar Projects in the Philippines.
Philippines > Real estate and construction Tier 1
The team at Quisumbing Torres has experience advising on the full gamut of complex real estate transactions. Its workload includes advising on transactional, regulatory and due diligence aspects of acquisitions of land, relocation projects, and constructions of large-scale facilities. The client portfolio the team assists features well-known names from an array of industry sectors. Julius Cervantes has expertise in regulatory and contractual aspects of real estate and construction matters. Donemark Calimon is adept at handling the construction elements of industrial, manufacturing and transportation work. Ramon Miguel Bacani is also a noteworthy name with a specialism in renewable energy, as is Michael Macapagal.Practice head(s):
Julius Cervantes
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Alphabet
Shell
China Harbour Engineering
Changi Airport International Pte. Ltd.
SBA Communications Corporation
Tecnimont SpA
Repsol SA
Work highlights
- Assisted a religious organization in the due diligence and acquisition of land which will be used by the client for religious purposes.
- Assisted a multinational tech company on the construction of a state of the art facility within an ecozone under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.
- Assisted a multinational pharmaceutical company with the real estate and regulatory aspects of the client’s office relocation project.
Philippines > Tax Tier 1
Quisumbing Torres‘ cohort is well-placed to assist its client portfolio on complex taxation matters in both domestic and international contexts. The team has a broad range of capabilities, including assisting with tax planning and transactions; tax policy; indirect taxation matters; and international and commercial trade matters. In addition, it is well-placed to advise on general wealth management, as well as on high-value disputes. Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo heads up the practice and specialises in industrials, manufacturing, and transportation-related cases. Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan‘s ‘energetic approach never fails to amaze’, and she is experienced handling tariff rates-related issues amongst others. Ronald Bernas departed in July 2023.Practice head(s):
Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo
Other key lawyers:
Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan; Roberto Romalio Reyes
Testimonials
‘The team’s strength is their deep understanding and experience in various areas of tax such as tax controversy, international tax and practical tax application. This gives comfort to me as a client that I am getting well-rounded, solid tax advice.’
‘I can rely on the team for support during matters that require direct engagement with the Bureau of Inland Revenue.’
‘The notable tax partner I have the privilege of working with is Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan. Her energetic approach to all the tax matters in the Philippines never ceases to amaze me. She was available and always stood ready to take instructions.’
‘Very competent, very careful, well-connected with the BIR and very well-versed in dealing with compliance matters.’
‘The team at QT headed by Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo is the best I’ve worked with the Philippines.’
Key clients
Alphabet (Google Inc.)
Universal Entertainment Corporation
Work highlights
- Represented an informal coalition of leading global companies before the technical working group of the Philippine Senate’s Ways and Means committee in formulating the law that will impose VAT on digital transactions of non-resident digital service providers.
- Representing the Philippine subsidiary of the world’s largest supplier and manufacturer of sportswear and equipment in three ongoing judicial protests with the CTA against deficiency tax assessments issued by the BIR for three different taxable years.
- Represented a global leader in manufacturing semiconductors before the Strategic Trade Management Office in respect of minimising potential consequences for the exportation of semifinished goods with military end-use without prior export authorization.
Philippines > TMT Tier 1
Well-regarded for its expertise in data privacy and compliance, Quisumbing Torres is particularly experienced in advising on cases involving cybersecurity issues, often involving multi-jurisdictional elements. The client roster includes health tech and fintech entities. Gil Roberto ZerrudoPractice head(s):
Gil Roberto Zerrudo; Divina Pastora Ilas-Panganiban
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Quisumbing Torres stands out in the legal landscape due to its deep-rooted connections within the industry, and its provision of a nuanced understanding of market practices and regulatory expectations. This intimate knowledge allows the firm to offer clients insights that are both practical and forward-looking, anticipating how laws will likely be interpreted and applied by regulators.’
‘The firm’s advice is not only legally sound but also commercially viable.’
‘The individuals at Quisumbing Torres distinguish themselves through their expertise, dedication, and unique personal qualities. What sets them apart from competitors is their ability to combine deep legal knowledge with a genuine commitment to client service.’
‘Among the standout professionals is Divina Pastora Ilas-Panganiban. Her exceptional listening skills, flexibility, and unwavering dedication to her clients make her a valuable partner. Her collaborative spirit and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue ensure that our needs are always met with the utmost professionalism and care.’
‘The qualities I value most in the team at Quisumbing Torres include their responsiveness, practical approach to problem-solving, and the ability to anticipate and adapt to changing client needs. These attributes, coupled with their industry connections and innovative mindset, make working with Quisumbing Torres a consistently rewarding experience.’
Key clients
Alphabet (Google Inc.)
PruLife Insurance Corporation of U.K.
Prudential Corporation Asia
SBA Communications Corporation
Space Exploration Technologies Corp.
Work highlights
- Acted for an international creative tool and software company in a data confidentiality breach matter.
- Assisted an American multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate with obtaining a Public Performance License and synchronization license from the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Inc. (FILSCAP) for online streaming sites.
Philippines > Banking and finance Tier 2
Quisumbing Torres' lucrative client list includes multinational banks, financial sponsors and corporate entities. The team's workload consists of acquisition, project and real estate finance, and financial regulatory mandates, particularly in the fintech space. Alain Charles Veloso is experienced in assisting with the full range of complex transactions, and oversees the group alongside Maria Christina Macasaet-AcabanPractice head(s):
Alain Charles Veloso; Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Allianz
Universal Entertainment Corporation
Prudential Corporation Asia
Manulife Philippines
KPMG AZSA LLC
Work highlights
- Advised a British universal bank and financial services group in connection to an amendment of the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility to a Singapore-based financing company as the borrower.
- Advised a regional development bank in the development and implementation of a city-level parametric disaster insurance scheme.
- Advised a Hong Kong-based multinational insurance and finance corporation in its joint venture with a wholly owned subsidiary of one of the oldest conglomerates in the Philippines.
Philippines > Transport Tier 3
Quisumbing Torres > Firm Profile
For 60 years, top Philippine and multinational companies have put their trust in Quisumbing Torres’ global expertise housing a seasoned legal team of more than 60 lawyers focused across different practice areas, industry sectors, and client solutions as a member firm of Baker & McKenzie International. Quisumbing Torres delivers holistic solutions to interconnected challenges. We work collaboratively with our clients, providing the appropriate perspective to inform decision-making while managing risk and gaining access to untapped business opportunities.
Our client base includes many leading local conglomerates, top multinational and domestic companies seeking to realize growth in the Philippines and beyond. Consistently recognized as a leading firm, we have developed a track record advising on some of the most significant and award-winning transactions in the country. We have successfully assisted Shell in its joint venture with Emerging Power Inc. to develop, own, operate, and maintain onshore renewable energy projects in the Philippines, which was recognized as 2023 M&A Deal of the Year by the Asian Legal Business Philippine Law Awards. We successfully advised Eramen Minerals in the development of a downstream nickel processing facility for the production of nickel components for batteries for use in electric vehicles, as well as advising SpaceX in the accreditation of its Starlink Philippine entity. Our partners play an active role in shaping policy. They have been involved in hearings and deliberations within the Philippine Congress and Executive Departments on critical issues related to energy transition, digital transformation and sustainability.
We continue to provide valuable local insight and foresight on corporate and commercial transactions to leading domestic companies and foreign multinationals on various matters in relation to doing business in the Philippines.
As international interest continues to set its sights in the Philippines, Quisumbing Torres’ global capability and network with deep local market knowledge make us the clear first choice for clients in the country and beyond.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Real Estate Group | Julius Cervantes | Julius.Cervantes@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194904 |
Consumer Goods & Retail Industry Group | Luisa Fernandez-Guina | Luisa.Fernandez-Guina@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194977 |
Immigration Practice Group | Miguel Galvez | Miguel.Galvez@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194950 |
Technology, Media & Telecommunications Industry Group | Divina Ilas-Panganiban | Divina.Ilas-Panganiban@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194961 |
Consumer Goods & Retail Industry Group | Bienvenido Marquez III | Bienvenido.Marquez@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194936 |
Intellectual Property Practice Group | Bienvenido Marquez III | Bienvenido.Marquez@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194936 |
Banking & Finance Practice Group | TJ Mendoza | TJ.Mendoza@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194963 |
Financial Institutions Industry Group | TJ Mendoza | TJ.Mendoza@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194963 |
Energy, Mining & Infrastructure Industry Group | Dennis Quintero | Dennis.Quintero@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194962 |
Insurance Group | Dennis Quintero | Dennis.Quintero@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194962 |
Capital Markets Group | Alain Charles Veloso | Charles.Veloso@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194954 |
Dispute Resolution Practice Group | Donemark Calimon | Donemark.Calimon@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194920 |
Industrials, Manufacturing & Transportation Industry Group | Donemark Calimon | Donemark.Calimon@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194920 |
Employment Practice Group | Kenneth Chua | Kenneth.Chua@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194940 |
Services (inluding Outsourcing) Industry Group | Kenneth Chua | Kenneth.Chua@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194940 |
Tax Practice Group | Dennis Dimagiba | Dennis.Dimagiba@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194912 |
Corporate & Commercial Practice Group | Christina Macasaet-Acaban | Christina.Macasaet-Acaban@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194947 |
Competition Focus Group | Christina Macasaet-Acaban | Christina.Macasaet-Acaban@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194947 |
Healthcare Industry Group | Christina Macasaet-Acaban | Christina.Macasaet-Acaban@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194947 |
Managing Partner | Ramon Quisumbing | Ramon.Quisumbing@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194911 |
Technology Media & Telecommunications Industry Group | Gil Roberto Zerrudo | Gil.Zerrudo@quisumbingtorres.com | +63288194916 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Dranyl Jared Amoroso | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Donemark Calimon | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Julius Cervantes | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Kenneth Chua | Partner | View Profile |
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Ms Ina Alexandra Dominguez | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Miguel Galvez | Partner | View Profile |
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Divina Pastora Ilas-Panganiban | Partner | View Profile |
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Ms Lara Camille Lee | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Michael Macapagal | Partner | View Profile |
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Ms Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Bienvenido Marquez | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Marvin Masangkay | Partner | View Profile |
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Ms Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo | Partner | View Profile |
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Ms Reena Mitra-Ventanilla | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Dennis Quintero | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Ramon Quisumbing | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Alain Charles Veloso | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Gil Roberto Zerrudo | Partner | View Profile |
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Eliseo Zuñiga | Partner | View Profile |
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Mr Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr. | Partner | View Profile |
Languages
EnglishFilipino
Client Testimonials
CLIENT:
COMPANY/FIRM:
TESTIMONIAL: The very responsive and competent team at Quisumbing Torres is praised for its strong internal and external network which is arguably second-to-none in the industry.
CLIENT:
COMPANY/FIRM:
TESTIMONIAL: “Quisumbing Torres.. is praised for its prompt and thorough response times and good level of knowledge.
Diversity/Community
When It Comes to People
We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our people, support and development of their talent, and dignity and safety in our workplaces. As a member firm of Baker & McKenzie International, a signatory to the UN Global Compact, we are committed to align our policies and operations with ten principles in the areas of human rights, fair labor, the environment and anti-corruption.
Diversity and Inclusion
We strive to nurture a respectful, inclusive environment that encourages diverse individuals to thrive personally and professionally as full contributors to the success of the firm and the clients we serve. We do not permit or tolerate discrimination in our workplaces. This means:
- All personnel decisions must be: a) respectful of differences among employees and potential employees, b) based on factors relevant to their ability to perform the work they are, or would be expected to do, and c) in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
- This includes decisions related to the recruiting, hiring, assignment, compensation, training and development, promotion and dismissal of personnel, as well as other terms and conditions of employment.
- Applicable local laws, which we follow, vary, but differences that we strive to overlook in personnel decisions include race, color, creed, religion, citizenship, national origin, ethnicity and/or cultural background, age, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy and disability.
While our approach to diversity and inclusion is multi-faceted, three areas where we have specific policies are:
Ethnic & Cultural Diversity
Ethnicity means different things in different countries, so a single approach to ethnic and cultural diversity is ill-advised. This is why we build practices from the ground up, taking local cultural sensitivities into consideration wherever we practice law. Despite the challenges, we have a strong desire to address a lack of equity around the world and encourage each of our offices to define race/ethnic diversity in a way that suits their local culture, politics, clients and business environment.
Gender Diversity
We believe women must be leaders at all levels of our Firm. We seek to foster women leaders in our senior global roles but we are also focusing on ensuring that women are leaders of our most significant client relationships. Since 2012, we have adopted a gender policy designed to encourage the recruitment and retention of more women, and provide greater opportunities and support for women to assume leadership roles. At the partner level, we have set gender diversity aspirational targets we are working to ensure that women comprise at least 40% of local/national partners and at least 30% of principals and those in leadership positions.
LGBT Diversity
Everyone should feel comfortable in the workplace, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. We are committed to creating and maintaining an open and supportive working environment. This includes equal opportunity for advancement and development within the firm regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and the equal provision of benefits to same and opposite sex partners or spouses.
We have made great strides in encouraging equality in our Firm and in engaging in these crucial conversations on a global basis. Our seven basic principles include:
Principle 1. Establish high-level corporate leadership for gender equality;
Principle 2. Treat all women and men fairly at work respect and support human rights and non-discrimination;
Principle 3. Ensure the health, safety and well-being of all women and men workers;
Principle 4. Promote education, training and professional development for women;
Principle 5. Implement enterprise development, supply chain and marketing practices that empower women;
Principle 6. Promote equality through community initiatives and advocacy; and
Principle 7. Measure and publicly report on progress to achieve gender equality.
Legal Briefings
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Enforcement of court judgments and arbitral awards in Saudi Arabia
Court judgments and arbitral awards are enforced in Saudi Arabia in accordance with the new Enforcement Law issued by Royal Decree No. M/53, dated 13 Shaban 1433H (corresponding to 3 July 2012) (the Enforcement Law); and the Implementing Regulations for the Enforcement Law issued by Ministerial Resolution No. 9892 dated 17 Rabi Thani 1434H (corresponding … -
Doing business in Colombia
Baker McKenzie reorganisations partner Clare Montgomery discusses the challenges and issues businesses face operating in the third-largest economy in Latin America -
Canada's evolving response to fraud and white-collar crime
As in most jurisdictions the pandemic has caused widespread disruption in Canada. The historic level of disruption has expedited reliance on technology and e-commerce across all sectors, setting the stage for a perfect storm when it comes to fraud and white-collar crime risks. Canada has long been considered a nation soft on white-collar crime, with … -
Prevention of corporate crimes as a compliance standard for Mexican companies
Since the inception of corporate criminal liability in Mexico in 2016, federal and state prosecutors have been increasingly active in pursuing both national and foreign-owned businesses for crimes as varied as money laundering, tax evasion and bribery. The legislation that was initially vague and challenging to interpret has, in the hands of regulators and by … -
Switzerland: increasing exposure of international businesses to criminal enforcement
Perception is not everything – general counsel should re-consider the risk exposure to criminal prosecution in Switzerland When it comes to the exposure of international business to criminal enforcement in Switzerland perception is not everything. In the past, Switzerland has not had a reputation as a tough environment. However, in recent years, the Federal Prosecutor … -
The opportunity for strategic corporate measures through compliance programmes in Colombia
In its economic report about Colombia, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) recognised efforts made by recent governments in the fight against corruption1. However, the perception on corruption being on the rise is still high: about 62% of Colombians believe that corruption levels have increased2. -
Doing business in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, the Middle East’s largest economy, offers a wide range of economic prospects as a result of its Vision 2030, an ambitious plan that aims to diversify the nation’s economy and open its doors wider to international investors. Understanding sector-specific criteria and potential constraints is critical to those considering doing business in the Kingdom. … -
Employment law in Brazil
What are the key aspects of Brazilian employment law that differ significantly from those in other jurisdictions, and how can global companies ensure compliance with these regulations? The main differences from other jurisdictions is that Brazilian labour rights are deemed to be of public interest and may not be waived. In addition Brazil is widely …
Comparative Guides
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Canada: Bribery & Corruption
Published: June 2024
Authors: John PirieJulia WebsterAhmed ShafeyJustine Johnstone
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Bribery & Corruption laws and regulations applicable in Canada.
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Thailand: Class Actions
Published: June 2024
Authors: Chaiporn Supvoranid Sirivat Jiruttikansakul Anyawee Asawawattanaporn
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Class Actions laws and regulations applicable in Thailand.
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United States: TMT
Published: August 2024
Authors: Samuel G. Kramer
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of TMT laws and regulations applicable in United States.
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United Kingdom: Tax Disputes
Published: October 2024
Authors: Jessica EdenDavid JamiesonSalli McElligottNaoko Uehara
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Tax Disputes laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
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Saudi Arabia: International Arbitration
Published: November 2024
Authors: Abdulrahman AlAjlan Anton MikelRami Bou RaadAseel Ali
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of International Arbitration laws and regulations applicable in Saudi Arabia.
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Colombia: Investing In
Published: January 2025
Authors: Jaime Trujillo Catalina Garzón Alejandro Mejía
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Investing In laws and regulations applicable in Colombia.
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Mexico: Life Sciences
Published: March 2025
Authors: Carla Calderon Carlos Alberto Vela-Treviño Jonathan Edward AdamsMarina Hurtado Cruz Milka Samantha López-Tapia Roberto Macias-Saltijeral
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Life Sciences laws and regulations applicable in Mexico.
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United States: Fintech
Published: March 2025
Authors: Samuel G. Kramer
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Fintech laws and regulations applicable in United States.
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Colombia: Doing Business In
Published: April 2025
Authors: Carolina PardoJaime Trujillo Clare MontgomeryCarlos Arboleda
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Doing Business In laws and regulations applicable in Colombia.
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Malaysia: Doing Business In
Published: April 2025
Authors: Munir Abdul Aziz Eddie Chuah Krystal Ng Lydia Kong Nico HoJustin Lew
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Doing Business In laws and regulations applicable in Malaysia.
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Thailand: Environmental, Social and Governance
Published: April 2025
Authors: Nam-Ake LekfuangfuVarutt KittichungchitNarawit Rujanant
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Environmental, Social and Governance laws and regulations applicable in Thailand.
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Mexico: Environmental, Social and Governance
Published: April 2025
Authors: Alejandra Muriel VizcaínoLuis Cavazos SanzFederico Ruanova GuineaThe authors wish to thank the collaboration and support of Martha Mayorga and Manuel Rodriguez Balleza.
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Environmental, Social and Governance laws and regulations applicable in Mexico.
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United Kingdom: Investment Treaty Arbitration
Published: March 2025
Authors: Ed PoultonJudith MulhollandKartik SinghJanek BednarzThe authors wish to thank Tom Smith, Alice Hawes and Jack Horrobin for their assistance in the preparation of this chapter.
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Investment Treaty Arbitration laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
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Key Developments in Canadian Class Actions
Published: June 2024
Authors: David Gadsden Brendan O’Grady Anton Rizor