2019 Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines PDF

S. No. 1280 H. No. 8374 \[ REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11232 \] ============================ AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE REVISED CORPORATION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES -------------------------------------------------------------------- GENERAL PROVISIONS DEFINITIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS -------------------------...

S. No. 1280 H. No. 8374 \[ REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11232 \] ============================ AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE REVISED CORPORATION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES -------------------------------------------------------------------- GENERAL PROVISIONS DEFINITIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS -------------------------------------------------- ***SECTION. 1. Title of the Code**.* -- This Code shall be known as the "Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines". ***SEC. 2. Corporation Defined**. --* A corporation is an artificial being created by operation of law, having the right of succession and the powers, attributes, and properties expressly authorized by law or incidental to its existence. ***SEC. 3. Classes of Corporations**. --* Corporations formed or organized under this Code may be stock or nonstock corporations. Stock corporations are those which have capital stock divided into shares and are authorized to distribute to the holders of such shares, dividends, or allotments of the surplus profits on the basis of the shares held. All other corporations are nonstock corporations. ***SEC. 4*. *Corporations Created by Special Laws or Charters****. --* Corporations created by special laws or charters shall be governed primarily by the provisions of the special law or charter creating them or applicable to them, supplemented by the provisions of this Code, insofar as they are applicable. ***SEC. 5.* *Corporators and Incorporators, Stockholders and Members*.** -- Corporators are those who compose a corporation, whether as stockholders or shareholders in a stock corporation or as members in a nonstock corporation. Incorporators are those stockholders or members mentioned in the articles of incorporation as originally forming and composing the corporation and who are signatories thereof. ***SEC. 6.* *Classification of Shares****.* -- The classification of shares, their corresponding rights, privileges, or restrictions, and their stated par value, if any, must be indicated in the articles of incorporation. Each share shall be equal in all respects to every other share, except as otherwise provided in the articles of incorporation and in the certificate of stock. The shares in stock corporations may be divided into classes or series of shares, or both. No share may be deprived of voting rights except those classified and issued as "preferred" or "redeemable" shares, unless otherwise provided in this Code: *Provided,* That there shall always be a class or series of shares with complete voting rights. a. Amendment of the articles of incorporation; b. Adoption and amendment of bylaws; c. Sale, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, or other disposition of all or substantially all of the corporate property; d. Incurring, creating, or increasing bonded indebtedness; e. Increase or decrease of authorized capital stock; f. Merger or consolidation of the corporation with another corporation or other corporations; g. Investment of corporate funds in another corporation or business in accordance with this Code; and h. Dissolution of the corporation. Except as provided in the immediately preceding paragraph, the vote required under this Code to approve a particular corporate act shall be deemed to refer only to stocks with voting rights. The shares or series of shares may or may not have a par value: *Provided*, That banks, trust, insurance, and preneed companies, public utilities, building and loan associations, and other corporations authorized to obtain or access funds from the public, whether publicly listed or not, shall not be permitted to issue no-par value shares of stock. Preferred shares of stock issued by a corporation may be given preference in the distribution of dividends and in the distribution of corporate assets in case of liquidation, or such other preferences: *Provided,* That preferred shares of stock may be issued only with a stated par value. The board of directors, where authorized in the articles of incorporation, may fix the terms and conditions of preferred shares of stock or any series thereof: *Provided, further,* That such terms and conditions shall be effective upon filing of a certificate thereof with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereinafter referred to as the "Commission". Shares of capital stock issued without par value shall be deemed fully paid and nonassessable and the holder of such shares shall not be liable to the corporation or to its creditors in respect thereto: *Provided,* That no-par value shares must be issued for a consideration of at least Five pesos (P5.00) per share: *Provided, further,* That the entire consideration received by the corporation for its no-par value shares shall be treated as capital and shall not be available for distribution as dividends. A corporation may further classify its shares for the purpose of ensuring compliance with constitutional or legal requirements. ***SEC. 7.* *Founders' Shares****.* -- Founders' shares may be given certain rights and privileges not enjoyed by the owners of other stocks. Where the exclusive right to vote and be voted for in the election of directors is granted, it must be for a limited period not to exceed five (5) years from the date of incorporation: *Provided,* That such exclusive right shall not be allowed if its exercise will violate Commonwealth Act No. 108, otherwise known as the "Anti-Dummy Law"; Republic Act No. 7042, otherwise known as the *"*Foreign Investments Act of 1991"; and other pertinent laws. ***SEC. 8.* *Redeemable Shares***. -- Redeemable shares may be issued by the corporation when expressly provided in the articles of incorporation. They are shares which may be purchased by the corporation from the holders of such shares upon the expiration of a fixed period, regardless of the existence of unrestricted retained earnings in the books of the corporation, and upon such other terms and conditions stated in the articles of incorporation and the certificate of stock representing the shares, subject to rules and regulations issued by the Commission. ***SEC. 9.* *Treasury shares****.* -- Treasury shares are shares of stock which have been issued and fully paid for, but subsequently reacquired by the issuing corporation through purchase, redemption, donation, or some other lawful means. Such shares may again be disposed of for a reasonable price fixed by the board of directors. INCORPORATION AND ORGANIZATION OF PRIVATE CORPORATIONS ------------------------------------------------------ ***SEC. 10. Number and Qualifications of Incorporators.*** -- Any person, partnership, association or corporation, singly or jointly with others but not more than fifteen (15) in number, may organize a corporation for any lawful purpose or purposes: *Provided*, That natural persons who are licensed to practice a profession, and partnerships or associations organized for the purpose of practicing a profession, shall not be allowed to organize as a corporation unless otherwise provided under special laws. Incorporators who are natural persons must be of legal age. Each incorporator of a stock corporation must own or be a subscriber to at least one (1) share of the capital stock. A corporation with a single stockholder is considered a One Person Corporation as described in Title XIII, Chapter III of this Code. ***SEC. 11. Corporate Term**. --* A corporation shall have perpetual existence unless its articles of incorporation provides otherwise. Corporations with certificates of incorporation issued prior to the effectivity of this Code, and which continue to exist, shall have perpetual existence, unless the corporation, upon a vote of its stockholders representing a majority of its outstanding capital stock, notifies the Commission that it elects to retain its specific corporate term pursuant to its articles of incorporation: *Provided,* That any change in the corporate term under this section is without prejudice to the appraisal right of dissenting stockholders in accordance with the provisions of this Code. A corporate term for a specific period may be extended or shortened by amending the articles of incorporation: *Provided*, That no extension may be made earlier than three (3) years prior to the original or subsequent expiry date(s) unless there are justifiable reasons for an earlier extension as may be determined by the Commission: *Provided, further*, That such extension of the corporate term shall take effect only on the day following the original or subsequent expiry date(s). A corporation whose term has expired may apply for a revival of its corporate existence, together with all the rights and privileges under its certificate of incorporation and subject to all of its duties, debts and liabilities existing prior to its revival. Upon approval by the Commission, the corporation shall be deemed revived and a certificate of revival of corporate existence shall be issued, giving it perpetual existence, unless its application for revival provides otherwise. No application for revival of certificate of incorporation of banks, banking and quasibanking institutions, preneed, insurance and trust companies, non-stock savings and loan associations (NSSLAs), pawnshops, corporations engaged in money service business, and other financial intermediaries shall be approved by the Commission unless accompanied by a favorable recommendation of the appropriate government agency. ***SEC. 12. Minimum Capital Stock Not Required of Stock Corporations***. -- Stock corporations shall not be required to have a minimum capital stock, except as otherwise specifically provided by special law. ***SEC. 13. Contents of the Articles of Incorporation**.* -- All corporations shall file with the Commission articles of incorporation in any of the official languages, duly signed and acknowledged or authenticated, in such form and manner as may be allowed by the Commission, containing substantially the following matters, except as otherwise prescribed by this Code or by special law: a. The name of the corporation; b. The specific purpose or purposes for which the corporation is being formed. Where a corporation has more than one stated purpose, the articles of incorporation shall indicate the primary purpose and the secondary purpose or purposes: *Provided*, That a nonstock corporation may not include a purpose which would change or contradict its nature as such; c. The place where the principal office of the corporation is to be located, which must be within the Philippines; d. The term for which the corporation is to exist, if the corporation has not elected perpetual existence; e. The names, nationalities, and residence addresses of the incorporators; f. The number of directors, which shall not be more than fifteen (15) or the number of trustees which may be more than fifteen (15); g. The names, nationalities, and residence addresses of persons who shall act as directors or trustees until the first regular directors or trustees are duly elected and qualified in accordance with this Code; h. If it be a stock corporation, the amount of its authorized capital stock, number of shares into which it is divided, the par value of each, names, nationalities, and residence addresses of the original subscribers, amount subscribed and paid by each on the subscription, and a statement that some or all of the shares are without par value, if applicable; i. If it be a nonstock corporation, the amount of its capital, the names, nationalities, and residence addresses of the contributors, and amount contributed by each; and (j)Such other matters consistent with law and which the incorporators may deem necessary and convenient. An arbitration agreement may be provided in the articles of incorporation pursuant to Section 181 of this Code. The articles of incorporation and applications for amendments thereto may be filed with the Commission in the form of an electronic document, in accordance with the Commission's rules and regulations on electronic filing. ***SEC. 14.* *Form of Articles of Incorporation****.* -- Unless otherwise prescribed by special law, the articles of incorporation of all domestic corporations shall comply substantially with the following form: The undersigned incorporators, all of legal age, have voluntarily agreed to form a (stock) (nonstock) corporation under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines and certify the following: OPC"; Second: That the purpose or purposes for which such corporation is incorporated are: (If there is more than one purpose, indicate primary and secondary purposes); \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, Province of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, Philippines; Fourth: That the corporation shall have perpetual existence or a term of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ years from the date of issuance of the certificate of incorporation; Fifth: That the names, nationalities, and residence addresses of the incorporators of the corporation are as follows: Name Nationality Residence Sixth: That the number of directors or trustees of the corporation shall be \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_; and the names, nationalities, and residence addresses of the first directors or trustees of the corporation are as follows: Name Nationality Residence Seventh: That the authorized capital stock of the corporation is \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ PESOS (P\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_), divided into \_\_\_\_\_ shares with the par value of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ PESOS (P\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_) per share. (In case all the shares are without par value): That the capital stock of the corporation is \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ shares without par value. (In case some shares have par value and some are without par value): That the capital stock of said corporation consists of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ shares, of which \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ shares have a par value of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ PESOS (P\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_) each, and of which \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ shares are without par value. Eighth: That the number of shares of the authorized capital stock above-stated has been subscribed as follows: Name of Subscriber Nationality No. of Shares Subscribed Amount Subscribed -------------------- ------------- -------------------------- ------------------- -- (Modify No. 8 if shares are with no-par value. In case the corporation is nonstock, Nos. 7 and 8 of the above articles may be modified accordingly, and it is sufficient if the articles state the amount of capital or money contributed or donated by specified persons, stating the names, nationalities, and residence addresses of the contributors or donors and the respective amount given by each.) Ninth: That \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ has been elected by the subscribers as Treasurer of the Corporation to act as such until after the successor is duly elected and qualified in accordance with the bylaws, that as Treasurer, authority has been given to receive in the name and for the benefit of the corporation, all subscriptions, contributions or donations paid or given by the subscribers or members, who certifies the information set forth in the seventh and eighth clauses above, and that the paid-up portion of the subscription in cash and/or property for the benefit and credit of the corporation has been duly received. Tenth: That the incorporators undertake to change the name of the corporation immediately upon receipt of notice from the Commission that another corporation, partnership or person has acquired a prior right to the use of such name, that the name has been declared not distinguishable from a name already registered or reserved for the use of another corporation, or that it is contrary to law, public morals, good customs or public policy. Eleventh: (Corporations which will engage in any business or activity reserved for Filipino citizens shall provide the following): "No transfer of stock or interest which shall reduce the ownership of Filipino citizens to less than the required percentage of capital stock as provided by existing laws shall be allowed or permitted to be recorded in the proper books of the corporation, and this restriction shall be indicated in all stock certificates issued by the corporation." IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto signed these Articles of Incorporation, this \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ day of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, 20\_\_\_\_\_ in the City/Municipality of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, Province of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, Republic of the Philippines. ***SEC. 15. Amendment of Articles of Incorporation**.* -- Unless otherwise prescribed by this Code or by special law, and for legitimate purposes, any provision or matter stated in the articles of incorporation may be amended by a majority vote of the board of directors or trustees and the vote or written assent of the stockholders representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock, without prejudice to the appraisal right of dissenting stockholders in accordance with the provisions of this Code. The articles of incorporation of a nonstock corporation may be amended by the vote or written assent of majority of the trustees and at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members. The original and amended articles together shall contain all provisions required by law to be set out in the articles of incorporation. Amendments to the articles shall be indicated by underscoring the change or changes made, and a copy thereof duly certified under oath by the corporate secretary and a majority of the directors or trustees, with a statement that the amendments have been duly approved by the required vote of the stockholders or members, shall be submitted to the Commission. The amendments shall take effect upon their approval by the Commission or from the date of filing with the said Commission if not acted upon within six (6) months from the date of filing for a cause not attributable to the corporation. **SEC. 16.** ***Grounds When Articles of Incorporation or Amendment May be Disapproved***. -- The Commission may disapprove the articles of incorporation or any amendment thereto if the same is not compliant with the requirements of this Code: *Provided*, That the Commission shall give the incorporators, directors, trustees, or officers a reasonable time from receipt of the disapproval within which to modify the objectionable portions of the articles or amendment. The following are grounds for such disapproval: a. The articles of incorporation or any amendment thereto is not substantially in accordance with the form prescribed herein; b. The purpose or purposes of the corporation are patently unconstitutional, illegal, immoral or contrary to government rules and regulations; c. The certification concerning the amount of capital stock subscribed and/or paid is false; and d. The required percentage of Filipino ownership of the capital stock under existing laws or the Constitution has not been complied with. No articles of incorporation or amendment to articles of incorporation of banks, banking and quasi-banking institutions, preneed, insurance and trust companies, NSSLAS, pawnshops, and other financial intermediaries shall be approved by the Commission unless accompanied by a favorable recommendation of the appropriate government agency to the effect that such articles or amendment is in accordance with law. ***SEC. 17. Corporate Name**.* -- No corporate name shall be allowed by the Commission if it is not distinguishable from that already reserved or registered for the use of another corporation, or if such name is already protected by law, or when its use is contrary to existing law, rules and regulations. A name is not distinguishable even if it contains one or more of the following: a. The word "corporation", "company", "incorporated", "limited", "limited liability", or an abbreviation of one of such words; and b. Punctuations, articles, conjunctions, contractions, prepositions, abbreviations, different tenses, spacing, or number of the same word or phrase. The Commission, upon determination that the corporate name is: (1) not distinguishable from a name already reserved or registered for the use of another corporation; (2) already protected by law; or (3) contrary to law, rules and regulations, may summarily order the corporation to immediately cease and desist from using such name and require the corporation to register a new one. The Commission shall also cause the removal of all visible signages, marks, advertisements, labels, prints and other effects bearing such corporate name. Upon the approval of the new corporate name, the Commission shall issue a certificate of incorporation under the amended name. If the corporation fails to comply with the Commission's order, the Commission may hold the corporation and its responsible directors or officers in contempt and/or hold them administratively, civilly and/or criminally liable under this Code and other applicable laws and/or revoke the registration of the corporation. ***SEC. 18. Registration, Incorporation and Commencement of Corporate Existence**.* -- A person or group of persons desiring to incorporate shall submit the intended corporate name to the Commission for verification. If the Commission finds that the name is distinguishable from a name already reserved or registered for the use of another corporation, not protected by law and is not contrary to law, rules and regulations, the name shall be reserved in favor of the incorporators. The incorporators shall then submit their articles of incorporation and bylaws to the Commission. If the Commission finds that the submitted documents and information are fully compliant with the requirements of this Code, other relevant laws, rules and regulations, the Commission shall issue the certificate of incorporation. A private corporation organized under this Code commences its corporate existence and juridical personality from the date the Commission issues the certificate of incorporation under its official seal and thereupon the incorporators, stockholders/members and their successors shall constitute a body corporate under the name stated in the articles of incorporation for the period of time mentioned therein, unless said period is extended or the corporation is sooner dissolved in accordance with law. ***SEC. 19. De facto Corporations.*** -- The due incorporation of any corporation claiming in good faith to be a corporation under this Code, and its right to exercise corporate powers, shall not be inquired into collaterally in any private suit to which such corporation may be a party. Such inquiry may be made by the Solicitor General in a *quo warranto* proceeding. ***SEC. 20. Corporation by Estoppel**.* -- All persons who assume to act as a corporation knowing it to be without authority to do so shall be liable as general partners for all debts, liabilities and damages incurred or arising as a result thereof: *Provided*, *however*, That when any such ostensible corporation is sued on any transaction entered by it as a corporation or on any tort committed by it as such, it shall not be allowed to use its lack of corporate personality as a defense. Anyone who assumes an obligation to an ostensible corporation as such cannot resist performance thereof on the ground that there was in fact no corporation. ***SEC. 21. Effects of Non-Use of Corporate Charter and Continuous Inoperation**.* -- If a corporation does not formally organize and commence its business within five (5) years from the date of its incorporation, its certificate of incorporation shall be deemed revoked as of the day following the end of the five (5)-year period. However, if a corporation has commenced its business but subsequently becomes inoperative for a period of at least five (5) consecutive years, the Commission may, after due notice and hearing, place the corporation under delinquent status. A delinquent corporation shall have a period of two (2) years to resume operations and comply with all requirements that the Commission shall prescribe. Upon compliance by the corporation, the Commission shall issue an order lifting the delinquent status. Failure to comply with the requirements and resume operations within the period given by the Commission shall cause the revocation of the corporation's certificate of incorporation. The Commission shall give reasonable notice to, and coordinate with the appropriate regulatory agency prior to the suspension or revocation of the certificate of incorporation of companies under their special regulatory jurisdiction. BOARD OF DIRECTORS/TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS ---------------------------------------- ***SEC. 22. The Board of Directors or Trustees of a Corporation; Qualification and Term***. -- Unless otherwise provided in this Code, the board of directors or trustees shall exercise the corporate powers, conduct all business, and control all properties of the corporation. Directors shall be elected for a term of one (1) year from among the holders of stocks registered in the corporation's books, while trustees shall be elected for a term not exceeding three (3) years from among the members of the corporation. Each director and trustee shall hold office until the successor is elected and qualified. A director who ceases to own at least one (1) share of stock or a trustee who ceases to be a member of the corporation shall cease to be such. The board of the following corporations vested with public interest shall have independent directors constituting at least twenty percent (20%) of such board: a. Corporations covered by Section 17.2 of Republic Act No. 8799, otherwise known as "The Securities Regulation Code", namely those whose securities are registered with the Commission, corporations listed with an exchange or with assets of at least Fifty million pesos (P50,000,000.00) and having two hundred (200) or more holders of shares, each holding at least one hundred (100) shares of a class of its equity shares; b. Banks and quasi-banks, NSSLAs, pawnshops, corporations engaged in money service business, pre-need, trust and insurance companies, and other financial intermediaries; and c. Other corporations engaged in business vested with public interest similar to the above, as may be determined by the Commission, after taking into account relevant factors which are germane to the objective and purpose of requiring the election of an independent director, such as the extent of minority ownership, type of financial products or securities issued or offered to investors, public interest involved in the nature of business operations, and other analogous factors. An independent director is a person who, apart from shareholdings and fees received from the corporation, is independent of management and free from any business or other relationship which could, or could reasonably be perceived to materially interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities as a director. Independent directors must be elected by the shareholders present or entitled to vote *in absentia* during the election of directors. Independent directors shall be subject to rules and regulations governing their qualifications, disqualifications, voting requirements, duration of term and term limit, maximum number of board memberships and other requirements that the Commission will prescribe to strengthen their independence and align with international best practices. ***SEC. 23. Election of Directors or Trustees***. -- Except when the exclusive right is reserved for holders of founders' shares under Section 7 of this Code, each stockholder or member shall have the right to nominate any director or trustee who possesses all of the qualifications and none of the disqualifications set forth in this Code. At all elections of directors or trustees, there must be present, either in person or through a representative authorized to act by written proxy, the owners of majority of the outstanding capital stock, or if there be no capital stock, a majority of the members entitled to vote. When so authorized in the bylaws or by a majority of the board of directors, the stockholders or members may also vote through remote communication or *in absentia*: *Provided*, That the right to vote through such modes may be exercised in corporations vested with public interest, notwithstanding the absence of a provision in the bylaws of such corporations. A stockholder or member who participates through remote communication or *in absentia*, shall be deemed present for purposes of quorum. In stock corporations, stockholders entitled to vote shall have the right to vote the number of shares of stock standing in their own names in the stock books of the corporation at the time fixed in the bylaws or where the bylaws are silent, at the time of the election. The said stockholder may: (a) vote such number of shares for as many persons as there are directors to be elected; (b) cumulate said shares and give one (1) candidate as many votes as the number of directors to be elected multiplied by the number of the shares owned; or (c) distribute them on the same principle among as many candidates as may be seen fit: *Provided,* That the total number of votes cast shall not exceed the number of shares owned by the stockholders as shown in the books of the corporation multiplied by the whole number of directors to be elected: *Provided, however*, That no delinquent stock shall be voted. Unless otherwise provided in the articles of incorporation or in the bylaws, members of nonstock corporations may cast as many votes as there are trustees to be elected but may not cast more than one (1) vote for one (1) candidate. Nominees for directors or trustees receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected. If no election is held, or the owners of majority of the outstanding capital stock or majority of the members entitled to vote are not present in person, by proxy, or through remote communication or not voting in absentia at the meeting, such meeting may be adjourned and the corporation shall proceed in accordance with Section 25 of this Code. The directors or trustees elected shall perform their duties as prescribed by law, rules of good corporate governance, and bylaws of the corporation. ***SEC. 24. Corporate Officers***. -- Immediately after their election, the directors of a corporation must formally organize and elect: (a) a president, who must be a director; (b) a treasurer, who must be a resident; (c) a secretary, who must be a citizen and resident of the Philippines; and (d) such other officers as may be provided in the bylaws. If the corporation is vested with public interest, the board shall also elect a compliance officer. The same person may hold two (2) or more positions concurrently, except that no one shall act as president and secretary or as president and treasurer at the same time, unless otherwise allowed in this Code. The officers shall manage the corporation and perform such duties as may be provided in the bylaws and/or as resolved by the board of directors. ***SEC. 25. Report of Election of Directors, Trustees and Officers, Non-holding of Election and Cessation from Office***. -- Within thirty (30) days after the election of the directors, trustees and officers of the corporation, the secretary, or any other officer of the corporation, shall submit to the Commission, the names, nationalities, shareholdings, and residence addresses of the directors, trustees, and officers elected. The non-holding of elections and the reasons therefor shall be reported to the Commission within thirty (30) days from the date of the scheduled election. The report shall specify a new date for the election, which shall not be later than sixty (60) days from the scheduled date. If no new date has been designated, or if the rescheduled election is likewise not held, the Commission may, upon the application of a stockholder, member, director or trustee, and after verification of the unjustified non-holding of the election, summarily order that an election be held. The Commission shall have the power to issue such orders as may be appropriate, including orders directing the issuance of a notice stating the time and place of the election, designated presiding officer, and the record date or dates for the determination of stockholders or members entitled to vote. Notwithstanding any provision of the articles of incorporation or bylaws to the contrary, the shares of stock or membership represented at such meeting and entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum for purposes of conducting an election under this section. Should a director, trustee or officer die, resign or in any manner cease to hold office, the secretary, or the director, trustee or officer of the corporation, shall, within seven (7) days from knowledge thereof, report in writing such fact to the Commission. ***SEC. 26. Disqualification of Directors, Trustees or Officers**.* -- A person shall be disqualified from being a director, trustee or officer of any corporation if, within five (5) years prior to the election or appointment as such, the person was: 1. Of an offense punishable by imprisonment for a period exceeding six (6) years; 2. For violating this Code; and 3. For violating Republic Act No. 8799, otherwise known as "The Securities Regulation Code"; b. Found administratively liable for any offense involving fraudulent acts; and c. By a foreign court or equivalent foreign regulatory authority for acts, violations or misconduct similar to those enumerated in paragraphs (a) and (b) above. The foregoing is without prejudice to qualifications or other disqualifications, which the Commission, the primary regulatory agency, or the Philippine Competition Commission may impose in its promotion of good corporate governance or as a sanction in its administrative proceedings. ***SEC. 27. Removal of Directors or Trustees.*** -- Any director or trustee of a corporation may be removed from office by a vote of the stockholders holding or representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock, or in a nonstock corporation, by a vote of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members entitled to vote: *Provided*, That such removal shall take place either at a regular meeting of the corporation or at a special meeting called for the purpose, and in either case, after previous notice to stockholders or members of the corporation of the intention to propose such removal at the meeting. A special meeting of the stockholders or members for the purpose of removing any director or trustee must be called by the secretary on order of the president, or upon written demand of the stockholders representing or holding at least a majority of the outstanding capital stock, or a majority of the members entitled to vote. If there is no secretary, or if the secretary, despite demand, fails or refuses to call the special meeting or to give notice thereof, the stockholder or member of the corporation signing the demand may call for the meeting by directly addressing the stockholders or members. Notice of the time and place of such meeting, as well as of the intention to propose such removal, must be given by publication or by written notice prescribed in this Code. Removal may be with or without cause: *Provided*, That removal without cause may not be used to deprive minority stockholders or members of the right of representation to which they may be entitled under Section 23 of this Code. The Commission shall, *motu proprio* or upon verified complaint, and after due notice and hearing, order the removal of a director or trustee elected despite the disqualification, or whose disqualification arose or is discovered subsequent to an election. The removal of a disqualified director shall be without prejudice to other sanctions that the Commission may impose on the board of directors or trustees who, with knowledge of the disqualification, failed to remove such director or trustee. ***SEC. 28. Vacancies in the Office of Director or Trustee; Emergency Board.*** -- Any vacancy occurring in the board of directors or trustees other than by removal or by expiration of term may be filled by the vote of at least a majority of the remaining directors or trustees, if still constituting a quorum; otherwise, said vacancies must be filled by the stockholders or members in a regular or special meeting called for that purpose. When the vacancy is due to term expiration, the election shall be held no later than the day of such expiration at a meeting called for that purpose. When the vacancy arises as a result of removal by the stockholders or members, the election may be held on the same day of the meeting authorizing the removal and this fact must be so stated in the agenda and notice of said meeting. In all other cases, the election must be held no later than forty-five (45) days from the time the vacancy arose. A director or trustee elected to fill a vacancy shall be referred to as replacement director or trustee and shall serve only for the unexpired term of the predecessor in office. However, when the vacancy prevents the remaining directors from constituting a quorum and emergency action is required to prevent grave, substantial, and irreparable loss or damage to the corporation, the vacancy may be temporarily filled from among the officers of the corporation by unanimous vote of the remaining directors or trustees. The action by the designated director or trustee shall be limited to the emergency action necessary, and the term shall cease within a reasonable time from the termination of the emergency or upon election of the replacement director or trustee, whichever comes earlier. The corporation must notify the Commission within three (3) days from the creation of the emergency board, stating therein the reason for its creation. Any directorship or trusteeship to be filled by reason of an increase in the number of directors or trustees shall be filled only by an election at a regular or at a special meeting of stockholders or members duly called for the purpose, or in the same meeting authorizing the increase of directors or trustees if so stated in the notice of the meeting. In all elections to fill vacancies under this section, the procedure set forth in Sections 23 and 25 of this Code shall apply. ***SEC. 29. Compensation of Directors or Trustees**.* -- In the absence of any provision in the bylaws fixing their compensation, the directors or trustees shall not receive any compensation in their capacity as such, except for reasonable per diems: *Provided however*, That the stockholders representing at least a majority of the outstanding capital stock or majority of the members may grant directors or trustees with compensation and approve the amount thereof at a regular or special meeting. In no case shall the total yearly compensation of directors exceed ten (10%) percent of the net income before income tax of the corporation during the preceding year. Directors or trustees shall not participate in the determination of their own per diems or compensation. Corporations vested with public interest shall submit to their shareholders and the Commission, an annual report of the total compensation of each of their directors or trustees. ***SEC. 30. Liability of Directors, Trustees or Officers**.* -- Directors or trustees who willfully and knowingly vote for or assent to patently unlawful acts of the corporation or who are guilty of gross negligence or bad faith in directing the affairs of the corporation or acquire any personal or pecuniary interest in conflict with their duty as such directors or trustees shall be liable jointly and severally for all damages resulting therefrom suffered by the corporation, its stockholders or members and other persons. A director, trustee, or officer shall not attempt to acquire, or acquire any interest adverse to the corporation in respect of any matter which has been reposed in them in confidence, and upon which, equity imposes a disability upon themselves to deal in their own behalf; otherwise the said director, trustee, or officer shall be liable as a trustee for the corporation and must account for the profits which otherwise would have accrued to the corporation. ***SEC. 31. Dealings of Directors, Trustees or Officers with the Corporation**.* -- A contract of the corporation with (1) one or more of its directors, trustees, officers or their spouses and relatives within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity is voidable, at the option of such corporation, unless all the following conditions are present: a. The presence of such director or trustee in the board meeting in which the contract was approved was not necessary to constitute a quorum for such meeting; b. The vote of such director or trustee was not necessary for the approval of the contract; c. The contract is fair and reasonable under the circumstances; d. In case of corporations vested with public interest, material contracts are approved by at least two-thirds (2/3) of the entire membership of the board, with at least a majority of the independent directors voting to approve the material contract; and e. In case of an officer, the contract has been previously authorized by the board of directors. Where any of the first three (3) conditions set forth in the preceding paragraph is absent, in the case of a contract with a director or trustee, such contract may be ratified by the vote of the stockholders representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock or of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members in a meeting called for the purpose: *Provided,* That full disclosure of the adverse interest of the directors or trustees involved is made at such meeting and the contract is fair and reasonable under the circumstances. ***SEC. 32. Contracts Between Corporations with Interlocking Directors**.* -- Except in cases of fraud, and provided the contract is fair and reasonable under the circumstances, a contract between two (2) or more corporations having interlocking directors shall not be invalidated on that ground alone: *Provided*, That if the interest of the interlocking director in one (1) corporation is substantial and the interest in the other corporation or corporations is merely nominal, the contract shall be subject to the provisions of the preceding section insofar as the latter corporation or corporations are concerned. Stockholdings exceeding twenty percent (20%) of the outstanding capital stock shall be considered substantial for purposes of interlocking directors. ***SEC. 33. Disloyalty of a Director**.* -- Where a director, by virtue of such office, acquires a business opportunity which should belong to the corporation, thereby obtaining profits to the prejudice of such corporation, the director must account for and refund to the latter all such profits, unless the act has been ratified by a vote of the stockholders owning or representing at least twothirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock. This provision shall be applicable, notwithstanding the fact that the director risked one's own funds in the venture. ***SEC. 34. Executive, Management, and Other Special Committees.*** -- If the bylaws so provide, the board may create an executive committee composed of at least three (3) directors. Said committee may act, by majority vote of all its members, on such specific matters within the competence of the board, as may be delegated to it in the bylaws or by majority vote of the board, except with respect to the: (a) approval of any action for which shareholders' approval is also required; (b) filling of vacancies in the board; (c) amendment or repeal of bylaws or the adoption of new bylaws; (d) amendment or repeal of any resolution of the board which by its express terms is not amendable or repealable; and (e) distribution of cash dividends to the shareholders. The board of directors may create special committees of temporary or permanent nature and determine the members' term, composition, compensation, powers, and responsibilities. POWERS OF CORPORATIONS ---------------------- ***SEC. 35. Corporate Powers and Capacity**.* -- Every corporation incorporated under this Code has the power and capacity: a. To sue and be sued in its corporate name; b. To have perpetual existence unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise; c. To adopt and use a corporate seal; d. To amend its articles of incorporation in accordance with the provisions of this Code; e. To adopt bylaws, not contrary to law, morals or public policy, and to amend or repeal the same in accordance with this Code; f. In case of stock corporations, to issue or sell stocks to subscribers and to sell treasury stocks in accordance with the provisions of this Code; and to admit members to the corporation if it be a nonstock corporation; g. To purchase, receive, take or grant, hold, convey, sell, lease, pledge, mortgage, and otherwise deal with such real and personal property, including securities and bonds of other corporations, as the transaction of the lawful business of the corporation may reasonably and necessarily require, subject to the limitations prescribed by law and the Constitution; h. To enter into a partnership, joint venture, merger, consolidation, or any other commercial agreement with natural and juridical persons; i. To make reasonable donations, including those for the public welfare or for hospital, charitable, cultural, scientific, civic, or similar purposes: *Provided,* That no foreign corporation shall give donations in aid of any political party or candidate or for purposes of partisan political activity; j. To establish pension, retirement, and other plans for the benefit of its directors, trustees, officers, and employees; and k. To exercise such other powers as may be essential or necessary to carry out its purpose or purposes as stated in the articles of incorporation. ***SEC. 36. Power to Extend or Shorten Corporate Term***. -- A private corporation may extend or shorten its term as stated in the articles of incorporation when approved by a majority vote of the board of directors or trustees, and ratified at a meeting by the stockholders or members representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock or of its members. Written notice of the proposed action and the time and place of the meeting shall be sent to stockholders or members at their respective place of residence as shown in the books of the corporation, and must either be deposited to the addressee in the post office with postage prepaid, served personally, or when allowed in the bylaws or done with the consent of the stockholder, sent electronically in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commission on the use of electronic data messages. In case of extension of corporate term, a dissenting stockholder may exercise the right of appraisal under the conditions provided in this Code. ***SEC. 37. Power to Increase or Decrease Capital Stock; Incur, Create or Increase Bonded Indebtedness***. -- No corporation shall increase or decrease its capital stock or incur, create or increase any bonded indebtedness unless approved by a majority vote of the board of directors and by two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock at a stockholders' meeting duly called for the purpose. Written notice of the time and place of the stockholders' meeting and the purpose for said meeting must be sent to the stockholders at their places of residence as shown in the books of the corporation and served on the stockholders personally, or through electronic means recognized in the corporation's bylaws and/or the Commission's rules as a valid mode for service of notices. A certificate must be signed by a majority of the directors of the corporation and countersigned by the chairperson and secretary of the stockholders' meeting, setting forth: a. That the requirements of this section have been complied with; b. The amount of the increase or decrease of the capital stock; c. In case of an increase of the capital stock, the amount of capital stock or number of shares of no-par stock thereof actually subscribed, the names, nationalities and addresses of the persons subscribing, the amount of capital stock or number of no-par stock subscribed by each, and the amount paid by each on the subscription in cash or property, or the amount of capital stock or number of shares of no-par stock allotted to each stockholder if such increase is for the purpose of making effective stock dividend therefor authorized; d. Any bonded indebtedness to be incurred, created or increased; e. The amount of stock represented at the meeting; and f. The vote authorizing the increase or decrease of the capital stock, or the incurring, creating or increasing of any bonded indebtedness. Any increase or decrease in the capital stock or the incurring, creating or increasing of any bonded indebtedness shall require prior approval of the Commission, and where appropriate, of the Philippine Competition Commission. The application with the Commission shall be made within six (6) months from the date of approval of the board of directors and stockholders, which period may be extended for justifiable reasons. Copies of the certificate shall be kept on file in the office of the corporation and filed with the Commission and attached to the original articles of incorporation. After approval by the Commission and the issuance by the Commission of its certificate of filing, the capital stock shall be deemed increased or decreased and the incurring, creating or increasing of any bonded indebtedness authorized, as the certificate of filing may declare: *Provided*, That the Commission shall not accept for filing any certificate of increase of capital stock unless accompanied by a sworn statement of the treasurer of the corporation lawfully holding office at the time of the filing of the certificate, showing that at least twenty-five percent (25%) of the increase in capital stock has been subscribed and that at least twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount subscribed has been paid in actual cash to the corporation or that property, the valuation of which is equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the subscription, has been transferred to the corporation: *Provided,* *further,* That no decrease in capital stock shall be approved by the Commission if its effect shall prejudice the rights of corporate creditors. Nonstock corporations may incur, create or increase bonded indebtedness when approved by a majority of the board of trustees and of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members in a meeting duly called for the purpose. Bonds issued by a corporation shall be registered with the Commission, which shall have the authority to determine the sufficiency of the terms thereof. ***SEC. 38. Power to Deny Preemptive Right.*** -- All stockholders of a stock corporation shall enjoy preemptive right to subscribe to all issues or disposition of shares of any class, in proportion to their respective shareholdings, unless such right is denied by the articles of incorporation or an amendment thereto: *Provided*, That such preemptive right shall not extend to shares issued in compliance with laws requiring stock offerings or minimum stock ownership by the public; or to shares issued in good faith with the approval of the stockholders representing two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock, in exchange for property needed for corporate purposes or in payment of a previously contracted debt. ***SEC. 39. Sale or Other Disposition of Assets**.* -- Subject to the provisions of Republic Act No. 10667, otherwise known as "Philippine Competition Act", and other related laws, a corporation may, by a majority vote of its board of directors or trustees, sell, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, or otherwise dispose of its property and assets, upon such terms and conditions and for such consideration, which may be money, stocks, bonds, or other instruments for the payment of money or other property or consideration, as its board of directors or trustees may deem expedient. A sale of all or substantially all of the corporation's properties and assets, including its goodwill, must be authorized by the vote of the stockholders representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock, or at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members, in a stockholders' or members' meeting duly called for the purpose. In nonstock corporations where there are no members with voting rights, the vote of at least a majority of the trustees in office will be sufficient authorization for the corporation to enter into any transaction authorized by this section. The determination of whether or not the sale involves all or substantially all of the corporation's properties and assets must be computed based on its net asset value, as shown in its latest financial statements. A sale or other disposition shall be deemed to cover substantially all the corporate property and assets if thereby the corporation would be rendered incapable of continuing the business or accomplishing the purpose for which it was incorporated. Written notice of the proposed action and of the time and place for the meeting shall be addressed to stockholders or members at their places of residence as shown in the books of the corporation and deposited to the addressee in the post office with postage prepaid, served personally, or when allowed by the bylaws or done with the consent of the stockholder, sent electronically: *Provided,* That any dissenting stockholder may exercise the right of appraisal under the conditions provided in this Code. After such authorization or approval by the stockholders or members, the board of directors or trustees may, nevertheless, in its discretion, abandon such sale, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, or other disposition of property and assets, subject to the rights of third parties under any contract relating thereto, without further action or approval by the stockholders or members. Nothing in this section is intended to restrict the power of any corporation, without the authorization by the stockholders or members, to sell, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, or otherwise dispose of any of its property and assets if the same is necessary in the usual and regular course of business of the corporation or if the proceeds of the sale or other disposition of such property and assets shall be appropriated for the conduct of its remaining business. ***SEC. 40. Power to Acquire Own Shares**.* -- Provided that the corporation has unrestricted retained earnings in its books to cover the shares to be purchased or acquired, a stock corporation shall have the power to purchase or acquire its own shares for a legitimate corporate purpose or purposes, including the following cases: a. To eliminate fractional shares arising out of stock dividends; b. To collect or compromise an indebtedness to the corporation, arising out of unpaid subscription, in a delinquency sale, and to purchase delinquent shares sold during said sale; and c. To pay dissenting or withdrawing stockholders entitled to payment for their shares under the provisions of this Code. ***SEC. 41. Power to Invest Corporate Funds in Another Corporation or Business or for Any Other Purpose**.* -- Subject to the provisions of this Code, a private corporation may invest its funds in any other corporation, business, or for any purpose other than the primary purpose for which it was organized, when approved by a majority of the board of directors or trustees and ratified by the stockholders representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock, or by at least two thirds (2/3) of the members in the case of nonstock corporations, at a meeting duly called for the purpose. Notice of the proposed investment and the time and place of the meeting shall be addressed to each stockholder or member at the place of residence as shown in the books of the corporation and deposited to the addressee in the post office with postage prepaid, served personally, or sent electronically in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commission on the use of electronic data message, when allowed by the bylaws or done with the consent of the stockholders*: Provided*, That any dissenting stockholder shall have appraisal right as provided in this Code: *Provided,* *however,* That where the investment by the corporation is reasonably necessary to accomplish its primary purpose as stated in the articles of incorporation, the approval of the stockholders or members shall not be necessary. ***SEC. 42. Power to Declare Dividends***. -- The board of directors of a stock corporation may declare dividends out of the unrestricted retained earnings which shall be payable in cash, property, or in stock to all stockholders on the basis of outstanding stock held by them: *Provided*, That any cash dividends due on delinquent stock shall first be applied to the unpaid balance on the subscription plus costs and expenses, while stock dividends shall be withheld from the delinquent stockholders until their unpaid subscription is fully paid: *Provided*, *further*, That no stock dividend shall be issued without the approval of stockholders representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock at a regular or special meeting duly called for the purpose. Stock corporations are prohibited from retaining surplus profits in excess of one hundred percent (100%) of their paid-in capital stock, except: (a) when justified by definite corporate expansion projects or programs approved by the board of directors; or (b) when the corporation is prohibited under any loan agreement with financial institutions or creditors, whether local or foreign, from declaring dividends without their consent, and such consent has not yet been secured; or (c) when it can be clearly shown that such retention is necessary under special circumstances obtaining in the corporation, such as when there is need for special reserve for probable contingencies. ***SEC. 43. Power to Enter into Management Contract**.* -- No corporation shall conclude a management contract with another corporation unless such contract is approved by the board of directors and by stockholders owning at least the majority of the outstanding capital stock, or by at least a majority of the members in the case of a nonstock corporation, of both the managing and the managed corporation, at a meeting duly called for the purpose: *Provided*, That (a) where a stockholder or stockholders representing the same interest of both the managing and the managed corporations own or control more than one-third (1/3) of the total outstanding capital stock entitled to vote of the managing corporation; or (b) where a majority of the members of the board of directors of the managing corporation also constitute a majority of the members of the board of directors of the managed corporation, then the management contract must be approved by the stockholders of the managed corporation owning at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total outstanding capital stock entitled to vote, or by at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members in the case of a nonstock corporation. These shall apply to any contract whereby a corporation undertakes to manage or operate all or substantially all of the business of another corporation, whether such contracts are called service contracts, operating agreements or otherwise: *Provided, however*, That such service contracts or operating agreements which relate to the exploration, development, exploitation or utilization of natural resources may be entered into for such periods as may be provided by the pertinent laws or regulations. No management contract shall be entered into for a period longer than five (5) years for any one (1) term. ***SEC. 44. Ultra Vires Acts of Corporations**.* -- No corporation shall possess or exercise corporate powers other than those conferred by this Code or by its articles of incorporation and except as necessary or incidental to the exercise of the powers conferred. BYLAWS ------ ***SEC. 45. Adoption of Bylaws***. -- For the adoption of bylaws by the corporation, the affirmative vote of the stockholders representing at least a majority of the outstanding capital stock, or of at least a majority of the members in case of nonstock corporations, shall be necessary. The bylaws shall be signed by the stockholders or members voting for them and shall be kept in the principal office of the corporation, subject to the inspection of the stockholders or members during office hours. A copy thereof, duly certified by a majority of the directors or trustees and countersigned by the secretary of the corporation, shall be filed with the Commission and attached to the original articles of incorporation. Notwithstanding the provisions of the preceding paragraph, bylaws may be adopted and filed prior to incorporation; in such case, such bylaws shall be approved and signed by all the incorporators and submitted to the Commission, together with the articles of incorporation. In all cases, bylaws shall be effective only upon the issuance by the Commission of a certification that the bylaws are in accordance with this Code. The Commission shall not accept for filing the bylaws or any amendment thereto of any bank, banking institution, building and loan association, trust company, insurance company, public utility, educational institution, or other special corporations governed by special laws, unless accompanied by a certificate of the appropriate government agency to the effect that such bylaws or amendments are in accordance with law. ***SEC. 46. Contents of Bylaws**.* -- A private corporation may provide the following in its bylaws: a. The time, place and manner of calling and conducting regular or special meetings of the directors or trustees; b. The time and manner of calling and conducting regular or special meetings and mode of notifying the stockholders or members thereof; c. The required quorum in meetings of stockholders or members and the manner of voting therein; d. The modes by which a stockholder, member, director, or trustee may attend meetings and cast their votes; e. The form for proxies of stockholders and members and the manner of voting them; f. The directors' or trustees' qualifications, duties and responsibilities, the guidelines for setting the compensation of directors or trustees and officers, and the maximum number of other board representations that an independent director or trustee may have which shall, in no case, be more than the number prescribed by the Commission; g. The time for holding the annual election of directors or trustees and the mode or manner of giving notice thereof; h. The manner of election or appointment and the term of office of all officers other than directors or trustees; i. The penalties for violation of the bylaws; j. In the case of stock corporations, the manner of issuing stock certificates; and k. Such other matters as may be necessary for the proper or convenient transaction of its corporate affairs for the promotion of good governance and anti-graft and corruption measures. An arbitration agreement may be provided in the bylaws pursuant to Section 181 of this Code. ***SEC. 47. Amendment to Bylaws**.* -- A majority of the board of directors or trustees, and the owners of at least a majority of the outstanding capital stock, or at least a majority of the members of a nonstock corporation, at a regular or special meeting duly called for the purpose, may amend or repeal the bylaws or adopt new bylaws. The owners of two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock or two-thirds (2/3) of the members in a nonstock corporation may delegate to the board of directors or trustees the power to amend or repeal the bylaws or adopt new bylaws: *Provided*, That any power delegated to the board of directors or trustees to amend or repeal the bylaws or adopt new bylaws shall be considered as revoked whenever stockholders owning or representing a majority of the outstanding capital stock or majority of the members shall so vote at a regular or special meeting. Whenever the bylaws are amended or new bylaws are adopted, the corporation shall file with the Commission such amended or new bylaws and, if applicable, the stockholders' or members' resolution authorizing the delegation of the power to amend and/or adopt new bylaws, duly certified under oath by the corporate secretary and a majority of the directors or trustees. The amended or new bylaws shall only be effective upon the issuance by the Commission of a certification that the same is in accordance with this Code and other relevant laws. MEETINGS -------- ***SEC. 48. Kinds of Meetings**.* -- Meetings of directors, trustees, stockholders, or members may be regular or special. ***SEC. 49. Regular and Special Meetings of Stockholders or Members**.* -- Regular meetings of stockholders or members shall be held annually on a date fixed in the bylaws, or if not so fixed, on any date after April 15 of every year as determined by the board of directors or trustees: *Provided,* That written notice of regular meetings shall be sent to all stockholders or members of record at least twenty-one (21) days prior to the meeting, unless a different period is required in the bylaws, law, or regulation: *Provided, further*, That written notice of regular meetings may be sent to all stockholders or members of record through electronic mail or such other manner as the Commission shall allow under its guidelines. At each regular meeting of stockholders or members, the board of directors or trustees shall endeavor to present to stockholders or members the following: 1. A description of the voting and vote tabulation procedures used in the previous meeting; 2. A description of the opportunity given to stockholders or members to ask questions and a record of the questions asked and answers given; 3. The matters discussed and resolutions reached; 4. A record of the voting results for each agenda item; 5. A list of the directors or trustees, officers and stockholders or members who attended the meeting; and 6. Such other items that the Commission may require in the interest of good corporate governance and the protection of minority stockholders. b. A members' list for nonstock corporations and, for stock corporations, material information on the current stockholders, and their voting rights; c. A detailed, descriptive, balanced and comprehensible assessment of the corporation's performance, which shall include information on any material change in the corporation's business, strategy, and other affairs; d. A financial report for the preceding year, which shall include financial statements duly signed and certified in accordance with this Code and the rules the Commission may prescribe, a statement on the adequacy of the corporation's internal controls or risk management systems, and a statement of all external audit and non-audit fees; e. An explanation of the dividend policy and the fact of payment of dividends or the reasons for nonpayment thereof; f. Director or trustee profiles which shall include, among others, their qualifications and relevant experience, length of service in the corporation, trainings and continuing education attended, and their board representations in other corporations; g. A director or trustee attendance report, indicating the attendance of each director or trustee at each of the meetings of the board and its committees and in regular or special stockholder meetings; h. Appraisals and performance reports for the board and the criteria and procedure for assessment; i. A director or trustee compensation report prepared in accordance with this Code and the rules the Commission may prescribe; j. Director disclosures on self-dealings and related party transactions; and/or k. The profiles of directors nominated or seeking election or reelection. A director, trustee, stockholder, or member may propose any other matter for inclusion in the agenda at any regular meeting of stockholders or members. Special meetings of stockholders or members shall be held at any time deemed necessary or as provided in the bylaws: *Provided,* *however*, That at least one (1) week written notice shall be sent to all stockholders or members, unless a different period is provided in the bylaws, law or regulation. A stockholder or member may propose the holding of a special meeting and items to be included in the agenda. Notice of any meeting may be waived, expressly or impliedly, by any stockholder or member: *Provided,* That general waivers of notice in the articles of incorporation or the bylaws shall not be allowed: *Provided, further*, That attendance at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Whenever for any cause, there is no person authorized or the person authorized unjustly refuses to call a meeting, the Commission, upon petition of a stockholder or member on a showing of good cause therefor, may issue an order directing the petitioning stockholder or member to call a meeting of the corporation by giving proper notice required by this Code or the bylaws. The petitioning stockholder or member shall preside thereat until at least a majority of the stockholders or members present have chosen from among themselves, a presiding officer. Unless the bylaws provide for a longer period, the stock and transfer book or membership book shall be closed at least twenty (20) days for regular meetings and seven (7) days for special meetings before the scheduled date of the meeting. In case of postponement of stockholders' or members' regular meetings, written notice thereof and the reason therefor shall be sent to all stockholders or members of record at least two (2) weeks prior to the date of the meeting, unless a different period is required under the bylaws, law or regulation. The right to vote of stockholders or members may be exercised in person, through a proxy, or when so authorized in the bylaws, through remote communication or *in absentia*. The Commission shall issue the rules and regulations governing participation and voting through remote communication or *in absentia*, taking into account the company's scale, number of shareholders or members, structure, and other factors consistent with the protection and promotion of shareholders' or member's meetings. ***SEC. 50. Place and Time of Meetings of Stockholders or Members***. -- Stockholders' or members' meetings, whether regular or special, shall be held in the principal office of the corporation as set forth in the articles of incorporation, or, if not practicable, in the city or municipality where the principal office of the corporation is located: *Provided,* That any city or municipality in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, and other Metropolitan areas shall, for purposes of this section, be considered a city or municipality. Notice of meetings shall be sent through the means of communication provided in the bylaws, which notice shall state the time, place and purpose of the meetings. a. The agenda for the meeting; b. A proxy form which shall be submitted to the corporate secretary within a reasonable time prior to the meeting; c. When attendance, participation, and voting are allowed by remote communication or *in absentia*, the requirements and procedures to be followed when a stockholder or member elects either option; and d. When the meeting is for the election of directors or trustees, the requirements and procedure for nomination and election. All proceedings and any business transacted at a meeting of the stockholders or members, if within the powers or authority of the corporation, shall be valid even if the meeting is improperly held or called: *Provided*, That all the stockholders or members of the corporation are present or duly represented at the meeting and not one of them expressly states at the beginning of the meeting that the purpose of their attendance is to object to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. ***SEC. 51. Quorum in Meetings**.* -- Unless otherwise provided in this Code or in the bylaws, a quorum shall consist of the stockholders representing a majority of the outstanding capital stock or a majority of the members in the case of nonstock corporations. ***SEC. 52. Regular and Special Meetings of Directors or Trustees; Quorum***. -- Unless the articles of incorporation or the bylaws provides for a greater majority, a majority of the directors or trustees as stated in the articles of incorporation shall constitute a quorum to transact corporate business, and every decision reached by at least a majority of the directors or trustees constituting a quorum, except for the election of officers which shall require the vote of a majority of all the members of the board, shall be valid as a corporate act. Regular meetings of the board of directors or trustees of every corporation shall be held monthly, unless the bylaws provide otherwise. Special meetings of the board of directors or trustees may be held at any time upon the call of the president or as provided in the bylaws. Meetings of directors or trustees of corporations may be held anywhere in or outside of the Philippines, unless the bylaws provide otherwise. Notice of regular or special meetings stating the date, time and place of the meeting must be sent to every director or trustee at least two (2) days prior to the scheduled meeting, unless a longer time is provided in the bylaws. A director or trustee may waive this requirement, either expressly or impliedly. Directors or trustees who cannot physically attend or vote at board meetings can participate and vote through remote communication such as videoconferencing, teleconferencing, or other alternative modes of communication that allow them reasonable opportunities to participate. Directors or trustees cannot attend or vote by proxy at board meetings. A director or trustee who has a potential interest in any related party transaction must recuse from voting on the approval of the related party transaction without prejudice to compliance with the requirements of Section 31 of this Code. ***SEC. 53. Who Shall Preside at Meetings**.* -- The chairman or, in his absence, the president shall preside at all meetings of the directors or trustees as well as of the stockholders or members, unless the bylaws provide otherwise. ***SEC. 54. Right to Vote of Secured Creditors and Administrators**.* -- In case a stockholder grants security interest in his or her shares in stock corporations, the stockholder-grantor shall have the right to attend and vote at meetings of stockholders, unless the secured creditor is expressly given by the stockholder-grantor such right in writing which is recorded in the appropriate corporate books. Executors, administrators, receivers, and other legal representatives duly appointed by the court may attend and vote in behalf of the stockholders or members without need of any written proxy. ***SEC. 55. Voting in Case of Joint Ownership of Stock**.* -- The consent of all the co-owners shall be necessary in voting shares of stock owned jointly by two (2) or more persons, unless there is a written proxy, signed by all the co-owners, authorizing one (1) or some of them or any other person to vote such share or shares: *Provided,* That when the shares are owned in an "and/or" capacity by the holders thereof, any one of the joint owners can vote said shares or appoint a proxy therefor. ***SEC. 56. Voting Right for Treasury Shares**.* -- Treasury shares shall have no voting right as long as such shares remain in the Treasury. ***SEC. 57. Manner of Voting; Proxies***. -- Stockholders and members may vote in person or by proxy in all meetings of stockholders or members. When so authorized in the bylaws or by a majority of the board of directors, the stockholders or members of corporations may also vote through remote communication or *in absentia*: *Provided,* That the votes are received before the corporation finishes the tally of votes. A stockholder or member who participates through remote communication or *in absentia*, shall be deemed present for purposes of quorum. The corporation shall establish the appropriate requirements and procedures for voting through remote communication and *in absentia*, taking into account the company's scale, number of shareholders or members, structure and other factors consistent with the basic right of corporate suffrage. Proxies shall be in writing, signed and filed, by the stockholder or member, in any form authorized in the bylaws and received by the corporate secretary within a reasonable time before the scheduled meeting. Unless otherwise provided in the proxy form, it shall be valid only for the meeting for which it is intended. No proxy shall be valid and effective for a period longer than five (5) years at any one time. ***SEC. 58. Voting Trusts***. -- One or more stockholders of a stock corporation may create a voting trust for the purpose of conferring upon a trustee or trustees the right to vote and other rights pertaining to the shares for a period not exceeding five (5) years at any time: *Provided*, That in the case of a voting trust specifically required as a condition in a loan agreement, said voting trust may be for a period exceeding five (5) years but shall automatically expire upon full payment of the loan. A voting trust agreement must be in writing and notarized, and shall specify the terms and conditions thereof. A certified copy of such agreement shall be filed with the corporation and with the Commission; otherwise, the agreement is ineffective and unenforceable. The certificate or certificates of stock covered by the voting trust agreement shall be cancelled and new ones shall be issued in the name of the trustee or trustees, stating that they are issued pursuant to said agreement. The books of the corporation shall state that the transfer in the name of the trustee or trustees is made pursuant to the voting trust agreement. The trustee or trustees shall execute and deliver to the transferors, voting trust certificates, which shall be transferable in the same manner and with the same effect as certificates of stock. The voting trust agreement filed with the corporation shall be subject to examination by any stockholder of the corporation in the same manner as any other corporate book or record: *Provided*, That both the trustor and the trustee or trustees may exercise the right of inspection of all corporate books and records in accordance with the provisions of this Code. Any other stockholder may transfer the shares to the same trustee or trustees upon the terms and conditions stated in the voting trust agreement, and thereupon shall be bound by all the provisions of said agreement. No voting trust agreement shall be entered into for purposes of circumventing the laws against anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant position, anti-competitive mergers and acquisitions, violation of nationality and capital requirements, or for the perpetuation of fraud. Unless expressly renewed, all rights granted in a voting trust agreement shall automatically expire at the end of the agreed period. The voting trust certificates as well as the certificates of stock in the name of the trustee or trustees shall thereby be deemed cancelled and new certificates of stock shall be reissued in the name of the trustors. The voting trustee or trustees may vote by proxy or in any manner authorized under the bylaws unless the agreement provides otherwise. TITLE VII STOCKS AND STOCKHOLDERS --------------------------------- ***SEC. 59. Subscription Contract**.* -- Any contract for the acquisition of unissued stock in an existing corporation or a corporation still to be formed shall be deemed a subscription within the meaning of this Title, notwithstanding the fact that the parties refer to it as a purchase or some other contract. ***SEC. 60. Pre-incorporation Subscription***. -- A subscription of shares in a corporation still to be formed shall be irrevocable for a period of at least six (6) months from the date of subscription, unless all of the other subscribers consent to the revocation, or the corporation fails to incorporate within the same period or within a longer period stipulated in the contract of subscription. No pre-incorporation subscription may be revoked after the articles of incorporation is submitted to the Commission. ***SEC. 61. Consideration for Stocks.*** -- Stocks shall not be issued for a consideration less than the par or issued price thereof. Consideration for the issuance of stock may be: a. Actual cash paid to the corporation; b. Property, tangible or intangible, actually received by the corporation and necessary or convenient for its use and lawful purposes at a fair valuation equal to the par or issued value of the stock issued; c. Labor performed for or services actually rendered to the corporation; d. Previously incurred indebtedness of the corporation; e. Amounts transferred from unrestricted retained earnings to stated capital; f. Outstanding shares exchanged for stocks in the event of reclassification or conversion; g. Shares of stock in another corporation; and/or h. Other generally accepted form of consideration. Where the consideration is other than actual cash, or consists of intangible property such as patents or copyrights, the valuation thereof shall initially be determined by the stockholders or the board of directors, subject to the approval of the Commission. Shares of stock shall not be issued in exchange for promissory notes or future service. The same considerations provided in this section, insofar as applicable, may be used for the issuance of bonds by the corporation. The issued price of no-par value shares may be fixed in the articles of incorporation or by the board of directors pursuant to authority conferred by the articles of incorporation or the bylaws, or if not so fixed, by the stockholders representing at least a majority of the outstanding capital stock at a meeting duly called for the purpose. ***SEC. 62. Certificate of Stock and Transfer of Shares**.* -- The capital stock of corporations shall be divided into shares for which certificates signed by the president or vice president, countersigned by the secretary or assistant secretary, and sealed with the seal of the corporation shall be issued in accordance with the bylaws. Shares of stock so issued are personal property and may be transferred by delivery of the certificate or certificates indorsed by the owner, his attorneyin-fact, or any other person legally authorized to make the transfer. No transfer, however, shall be valid, except as between the parties, until the transfer is recorded in the books of the corporation showing the names of the parties to the transaction, the date of the transfer, the number of the certificate or certificates, and the number of shares transferred. The Commission may require corporations whose securities are traded in trading markets and which can reasonably demonstrate their capability to do so to issue their securities or shares of stocks in uncertificated or scripless form in accordance with the rules of the Commission. No shares of stock against which the corporation holds any unpaid claim shall be transferable in the books of the corporation. ***SEC. 63. Issuance of Stock Certificates***. -- No certificate of stock shall be issued to a subscriber until the full amount of the subscription together with interest and expenses (in case of delinquent shares), if any is due, has been paid. ***SEC. 64. Liability of Directors for Watered Stocks***. -- A director or officer of a corporation who: (a) consents to the issuance of stocks for a consideration less than its par or issued value; (b) consents to the issuance of stocks for a consideration other than cash, valued in excess of its fair value; or (c) having knowledge of the insufficient consideration, does not file a written objection with the corporate secretary, shall be liable to the corporation or its creditors, solidarily with the stockholder concerned for the difference between the value received at the time of issuance of the stock and the par or issued value of the same. ***SEC. 65. Interest on Unpaid Subscriptions***. -- Subscribers to stocks shall be liable to the corporation for interest on all unpaid subscriptions from the date of subscription, if so required by and at the rate of interest fixed in the subscription contract. If no rate of interest is fixed in the subscription contract, the prevailing legal rate shall apply. ***SEC. 66. Payment of Balance of Subscription***. -- Subject to the provisions of the subscription contract, the board of directors may, at any time, declare due and payable to the corporation unpaid subscriptions and may collect the same or such percentage thereof, in either case, with accrued interest, if any, as it may deem necessary. Payment of unpaid subscription or any percentage thereof, together with any interest accrued shall be made on the date specified in the subscription contract or on the date stated in the call made by the board. Failure to pay on such date shall render the entire balance due and payable and shall make the stockholder liable for interest at the legal rate on such balance, unless a different interest rate is provided in the subscription contract. The interest shall be computed from the date specified, until full payment of the subscription. If no payment is made within thirty (30) days from the said date, all stocks covered by the subscription shall thereupon become delinquent and shall be subject to sale as hereinafter provided, unless the board of directors orders otherwise. ***SEC. 67. Delinquency Sale***. -- The board of directors may, by resolution, order the sale of delinquent stock and shall specifically state the amount due on each subscription plus all accrued interest, and the date, time and place of the sale which shall not be less than thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days from the date the stocks become delinquent. Notice of the sale, with a copy of the resolution, shall be sent to every delinquent stockholder either personally, by registered mail, or through other means provided in the bylaws. The same shall be published once a week for two (2) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the province or city where the principal office of the corporation is located. Unless the delinquent stockholder pays to the corporation, on or before the date specified for the sale of the delinquent stock, the balance due on the former's subscription, plus accrued interest, costs of advertisement and expenses of sale, or unless the board of directors otherwise orders, said delinquent stock shall be sold at a public auction to such bidder who shall offer to pay the full amount of the balance on the subscription together with accrued interest, costs of advertisement and expenses of sale, for the smallest number of shares or fraction of a share. The stock so purchased shall be transferred to such purchaser in the books of the corporation and a certificate for such stock shall be issued in the purchaser's favor. The remaining shares, if any, shall be credited in favor of the delinquent stockholder who shall likewise be entitled to the issuance of a certificate of stock covering such shares. Should there be no bidder at the public auction who offers to pay the full amount of the balance on the subscription together with accrued interest, costs of advertisement, and expenses of sale, for the smallest number of shares or fraction of a share, the corporation may, subject to the provisions of this Code, bid for the same, and the total amount due shall be credited as fully paid in the books of the corporation. Title to all the shares of stock covered by the subscription shall be vested in the corporation as treasury shares and may be disposed of by said corporation in accordance with the provisions of this Code. ***SEC. 68. When Sale May be Questioned**.* -- No action to recover delinquent stock sold can be sustained upon the ground of irregularity or defect in the notice of sale, or in the sale itself of the delinquent stock, unless the party seeking to maintain such action first pays or tenders to the party holding the stock the sum for which the same was sold, with interest from the date of sale at the legal rate. No such action shall be maintained unless a complaint is filed within six (6) months from the date of sale. ***SEC. 69. Court Action to Recover Unpaid Subscription**.* -- Nothing in this Code shall prevent the corporation from collecting through court action, the amount due on any unpaid subscription, with accrued interest, costs and expenses. ***SEC. 70. Effect of Delinquency**.* -- No delinquent stock shall be voted for, be entitled to vote, or be represented at any stockholder's meeting, nor shall the holder thereof be entitled to any of the rights of a stockholder except the right to dividends in accordance with the provisions of this Code, until and unless payment is made by the holder of such delinquent stock for the amount due on the subscription with accrued interest, and the costs and expenses of advertisement, if any. ***SEC. 71. Rights of Unpaid Shares, Nondelinquent**.* -- Holders of subscribed shares not fully paid which are not delinquent shall have all the rights of a stockholder. ***SEC. 72. Lost or Destroyed Certificates**.* -- The following procedure shall be followed by a corporation in issuing new certificates of stock in lieu of those which have been lost, stolen or destroyed: a. The registered owner of a certificate of stock in a corporation or such person's legal representative shall file with the corporation an affidavit in triplicate setting forth, if possible, the circumstances as to how the certificate was lost, stolen or destroyed, the number of shares represented by such certificate, the serial number of the certificate and the name of the corporation which issued the same. The owner of such certificate of stock shall also submit such other information and evidence as may be deemed necessary; and b. After verifying the affidavit and other information and evidence with the books of the corporation, the corporation shall publish a notice in a newspaper of general circulation in the place where the corporation has its principal office, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks at the expense of the registered owner of the certificate of stock which has been lost, stolen or destroyed. The notice shall state the name of the corporation, the name of the registered owner, the serial number of the certificate, the number of shares represented by such certificate, and shall state that after the expiration of one (1) year from the date of the last publication, if no contest has been presented to the corporation regarding the certificate of stock, the right to make such contest shall be barred and the corporation shall cancel the lost, destroyed or stolen certificate of stock in its books. In lieu thereof, the corporation shall issue a new certificate of stock, unless the registered owner files a bond or other security as may be required, effective for a period of one (1) year, for such amount and in such form and with such sureties as may be satisfactory to the board of directors, in which case a new certificate may be issued even before the expiration of the one (1) year period provided herein. If a contest has been presented to the corporation or if an action is pending in court regarding the ownership of the certificate of stock which has been lost, stolen or destroyed, the issuance of the new certificate of stock in lieu thereof shall be suspended until the court renders a final decision regarding the ownership of the certificate of stock which has been lost, stolen or destroyed. Except in case of fraud, bad faith, or negligence on the part of the corporation and its officers, no action may be brought against any corporation which shall have issued certificate of stock in lieu of those lost, stolen or destroyed pursuant to the procedure above-described. CORPORATE BOOKS AND RECORDS --------------------------- ***SEC. 73. Books to be Kept; Stock Transfer Agent***. -- Every corporation shall keep and carefully preserve at its principal office all information relating to the corporation including, but not limited to: a. The articles of incorporation and bylaws of the corporation and all their amendments; b. The current ownership structure and voting rights of the corporation, including lists of stockholders or members, group structures, intra-group relations, ownership data, and beneficial ownership; c. The names and addresses of all the members of the board of directors or trustees and the executive officers; d. A record of all business transactions; e. A record of the resolutions of the board of directors or trustees and of the stockholders or members; f. Copies of the latest reportorial requirements submitted to the Commission; and g. The minutes of all meetings of stockholders or members, or of the board of directors or trustees. Such minutes shall set forth in detail, among others: the time and place of the meeting held, how it was authorized, the notice given, the agenda therefor, whether the meeting was regular or special, its object if special, those present and absent, and every act done or ordered done at the meeting. Upon the demand of a director, trustee, stockholder or member, the time when any director, trustee, stockholder or member entered or left the meeting must be noted in the minutes; and on a similar demand, the yeas and nays must be taken on any motion or proposition, and a record thereof carefully made. The protest of a director, trustee, stockholder or member on any action or proposed action must be recorded in full upon their demand. Corporate records, regardless of the form in which they are stored, shall be open to inspection by any director, trustee, stockholder or member of the corporation in person or by a representative at reasonable hours on business days, and a demand in writing may be made by such director, trustee or stockholder at their expense, for copies of such records or excerpts from said records. The inspecting or reproducing party shall remain bound by confidentiality rules under prevailing laws, such as the rules on trade secrets or processes under Republic Act No. 8293, otherwise known as the "Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines", as amended, Republic Act No. 10173, otherwise known as the "Data Privacy Act of 2012", Republic Act No. 8799, otherwise known as "The Securities Regulation Code", and the Rules of Court. A requesting party who is not a stockholder or member of record, or is a competitor, director, officer, controlling stockholder or otherwise represents the interests of a competitor shall have no right to inspect or demand reproduction of corporate records. Any stockholder who shall abuse the rights granted under this section shall be penalized under Section 158 of this Code, without prejudice to the provisions of Republic Act No. 8293, otherwise known as the "Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines", as amended, and Republic Act No. 10173, otherwise known as the "Data Privacy Act of 2012". Any officer or agent of the corporation who shall refuse to allow the inspection and/or reproduction of records in accordance with the provisions of this Code shall be liable to such director, trustee, stockholder or member for damages, and in addition, shall be guilty of an offense which shall be punishable under Section 161 of this Code: *Provided*, That if such refusal is made pursuant to a resolution or order of the board of directors or trustees, the liability under this section for such action shall be imposed upon the directors or trustees who voted for such refusal: *Provided, further*, That it shall be a defense to any action under this section that the person demanding to examine and copy excerpts from the corporation's records and minutes has improperly used any information secured through any prior examination of the records or minutes of such corporation or of any other corporation, or was not acting in good faith or for a legitimate purpose in making the demand to examine or reproduce corporate records, or is a competitor, director, officer, controlling stockholder or otherwise represents the interests of a competitor. If the corporation denies or does not act on a demand for inspection and/or reproduction, the aggrieved party may report such to the Commission. Within five (5) days from receipt of such report, the Commission shall conduct a summary investigation and issue an order directing the inspection or reproduction of the requested records. Stock corporations must also keep a stock and transfer book, which shall contain a record of all stocks in the names of the stockholders alphabetically arranged; the installments paid and unpaid on all stocks for which subscription has been made, and the date of payment of any installment; a statement of every alienation, sale or transfer of stock made, the date thereof, by and to whom made; and such other entries as the bylaws may prescribe. The stock and transfer book shall be kept in the principal office of the corporation or in the office of its stock transfer agent and shall be open for inspection by any director or stockholder of the corporation at reasonable hours on business days. A stock transfer agent or one engaged principally in the business of registering tran