Starting a business in Cebu can be an exciting journey, whether you’re opening a small café, a sari-sari store, or a professional service. As a proud Cebuano, I know that registering your business name is one of the first and most important steps to make your venture official.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to register your business name in Cebu, sharing some helpful tips along the way to make the process smoother.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
The first step is to decide on the right structure for your business. In the Philippines, common options include Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Corporation. A Sole Proprietorship is simpler and faster to register, while a Corporation is ideal if you’re planning to expand or involve multiple partners.
Personal Tip: If you’re just starting out and want a hassle-free setup, I recommend going for a Sole Proprietorship. It’s easier to manage, especially for small businesses like a karinderya or sari-sari store.
Step 2: Register Your Business Name
Pick a unique and catchy business name that reflects your brand. For Sole Proprietorships, register with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). For Partnerships and Corporations, register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
To avoid delays, check if your preferred name is available using the DTI BNRS website: https://bnrs.dti.gov.ph.
According to the official website of DTI,
Your online application for a Business Name (BN) is subject to the Terms and Conditions set forth under the REVISED IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT 3883, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE BUSINESS NAME LAW.
Accordingly, it is your responsibility to ensure that your proposed Business Name is:
- not a term or word or group of words that connote activities or norms that are unlawful, immoral, scandalous or contrary to propriety (e.g. Boobs Massage & Spa);
- not a name, word or group of words, term or expression used to designate or distinguish, or suggest a quality of any class of goods, articles, merchandise, products or services;
- not a trade name, trademark, or business name registered by any government agency authorized to register names or trademarks;
- not inimical to the security of the State;
- not composed of a purely generic word or group of words (e.g. The Drugstore, Health Care Clinic);
- not a name the use of which is restricted by law or regulation; or that which cannot be legally appropriated (e.g. Red Cross, Red Crescent, ISIS);
- not officially used by the government in its non-proprietary functions (e.g. NBI Private Investigation Services, PNP Security Agency);
- not a name or abbreviation of any nation, inter-governmental or international organization, unless authorized by a competent authority of that nation, inter-governmental or international organization;
- not subject of an order by any administrative agencies/bodies or regular courts prohibiting the registration thereof;
- not a name of other persons; and
- not deceptive, misleading or one that misrepresents the nature of the business.
In the performance of its duties, DTI may conduct a post-evaluation of registered Business Names and may contact the Registrant for the proper execution of the provisions of the Republic Act No. 3883, as amended, and its Implementing Rules and Regulations.
Personal Tip: Try adding Cebuano words to your business name to make it feel more local. For example, instead of just “Cebu Café,” try “Kape sa Sugbo” for a more authentic vibe.
Step 3: Get Your Barangay Clearance
Once your business name is registered, visit your barangay office to get a Barangay Clearance. This document proves that your business follows local regulations. Bring these requirements:
- Completed Barangay Clearance Application Form
- Valid government-issued ID
- Previous year’s business permit (if renewing)
Personal Tip: If the barangay office is busy, go early in the morning or right after lunch when queues are shorter. As they say in Cebu, “Agwanta lang gamay” (just bear with it a bit) — patience goes a long way!
Related article: Steps to Acquire Barangay Clearance in Cebu
Step 4: Apply for a Mayor’s Permit (Business Permit
Next, visit Cebu City Hall’s Office of the City Treasurer for your Mayor’s Permit. Bring these:
- Completed Business Permit Application Form
- DTI/SEC Certificate of Business Name Registration
- Barangay Clearance
- Location Clearance from CPDO
- Fire Safety Inspection Certificate
- Sanitary Permit from the City Health Department
- Real Property Tax Clearance (if applicable)
- Environmental Compliance Certificate (for certain businesses)
- Fire insurance policy (for businesses with 50+ employees)
Personal Tip: Prepare your documents in a clear folder to keep everything organized. Cebuano clerks appreciate it when your papers are neat and complete — “Hapsay nga papeles, dali ra mahuman” (Organized papers mean faster processing).
Related article: How to Get a Barangay Business Permit in Cebu: A Simple Guide
Step 5: Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
After securing your Mayor’s Permit, register your business with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to get your Tax Identification Number (TIN) and comply with tax requirements. Bring these:
- Completed BIR Form 1901 (for sole proprietors) or BIR Form 1903 (for corporations/partnerships)
- Mayor’s Permit
- DTI/SEC Certificate
- Proof of business address (e.g., utility bill or lease contract)
- Valid government-issued ID
Personal Tip: When visiting BIR, bring a pen and make extra copies of your documents. Cebuano elders always say, “Mas maayu na maniguro” (It’s better to be prepared).
Step 6: Register with Other Government Agencies
Depending on your business type, you may also need to register with:
- Social Security System (SSS)
- PhilHealth
- Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC)
These ensure your employees have proper benefits and your business complies with labor laws.
Personal Tip: Don’t skip this step even if you’re starting small. As Cebuanos say, “Gamayang negosyo, padakuon” (Small businesses can grow big). Proper registration ensures you won’t face problems later.
Final Thoughts
Starting a business in Cebu may seem like a lot of steps, but once you break it down, it’s manageable. With patience, preparation, and a bit of Cebuano diskarte (street-smart strategy), you’ll be up and running in no time. If you need extra guidance, Cebu City Hall and DTI Cebu are always accommodating.
Sige, padayon sa imong negosyo!
Chris Soronio
