Team size: 29

What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

Our dedicated legal team has been deeply involved in enhancing our internal policies to ensure strict compliance with the regulations established by the BSP (Bangko Sentral Pilipinas) and AMLC (Anti-Money Laundering Council). Through meticulous reviews of multi-million-peso / US dollar commercial transactions, we have diligently assessed and ensured our regulatory compliance. Moreover, we have been actively engaged in designing a comprehensive legal framework that will effectively bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3 within the virtual asset exchange industry in the Philippines.Building positive relationships with regulators and government agencies has been a top priority for us as well. As such, we have actively fostered these relationships to increase awareness about the profound impact of blockchain technology and importance of cybersecurity and anti-fraud practices. In collaboration with regulators, we have successfully participated in regular and thematic audits, demonstrating our commitment to transparency and compliance. Additionally, we have taken the initiative to establish and maintain regular meetings with regulators to foster open communication and ensure ongoing compliance. Our efforts have resulted in obtaining and upholding various regulatory licenses that effectively cater to our clients’ diverse needs.

Why are in-house lawyers well-placed to drive change in their organisations?

In-house lawyers are well-placed to drive change in their organisations for several reasons. They can identify areas where legal considerations intersect with other business functions and drive change by collaborating with different teams to find solutions that align with legal requirements and business objectives. In-house lawyers build a solid and sustainable organisation by driving change in corporate governance, risk management, and ethical conduct. Also, an in-house lawyer’s proactive approach to risk management is instrumental in driving positive change and ensuring the business’s long-term success. Overall, the combination of legal expertise, cross-functional perspective, ethical focus, influence, and risk management capabilities make in-house counsel valuable agents of change within their organisations. Furthermore, by using their experience, in-house lawyers can influence changes that promote moral conduct, integrity, and conformity to relevant laws and regulations. By actively participating in decision-making processes, in-house lawyers can impact the company’s culture and help shape policies and procedures corresponding to moral and ethical standards.

How do you suggest in-house lawyers build strong relationships with business partners?

In-house lawyers must build strong relationships with business partners to collaborate and effectively drive positive outcomes. To do this, they should establish open lines of communication, be proactive and accessible, understand the business, and collaborate and problem-solve. Communication and active listening build trust and demonstrate commitment to supporting their success. Building strong relationships with business partners is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort, effective communication, and a proactive approach. By actively participating in finding solutions, offering educational sessions and training programmes, being a trusted advisor, and fostering cross-functional relationships, in-house lawyers can demonstrate their commitment to helping the business succeed. By continuously providing practical solutions and being responsive and supportive, in-house lawyers can establish themselves as integral members of the organisation’s team.

How important is choosing to work with external lawyers who align with your company’s values? Are you likely to reconsider what firms you work with based on this?

This is very important and goes to the core of the legal team’s function and integrity. Choosing external lawyers who align with your company’s values can have several advantages, such as shared understanding and collaboration, consistency and reputation management, ethical cons and ethical considerations. This alignment can help maintain a positive public image and ethical business practices. This alignment is necessary as long-term relationships with external lawyers who share the same ethical considerations can lead to more tailored legal advice, efficient collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the company’s unique context.