Expanding into Manila is one of the smartest moves global businesses can make today. With its skilled workforce, cost-efficient operations, and strong outsourcing ecosystem, Manila has become a leading destination for companies looking to scale through a satellite office.
But setting up a 50-seat satellite office in a new country can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re navigating unfamiliar permits, timelines and recruitment processes.
This guide breaks down every step you need to take, from legal registration to full operational readiness, so you launch confidently and efficiently.
Why Choose Manila for Your Satellite Office?
Before diving into the step-by-step setup process, here’s why Manila is a top choice for global expansion:
- Large, English-speaking talent pool
- Cost-efficient labour and operations
- Established BPO and knowledge process outsourcing
- Strong business districts such as Makati, BGC and Ortigas
- Government support for foreign investment
A 50-seat operation is ideal as it allows you to scale teams quickly while maintaining quality and control.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Entire Setup Process
Phase 1: Legal Registration & Permits (Months 0–3)
1. Secure Your Business Structure
To operate in Manila, you must register as one of the following:
- Foreign Branch Office
- Representative Office
- Domestic Corporation (subsidiary)
Each option has different capital requirements and compliance obligations.
2. Register with SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)
You will need:
- Parent company documents (authenticated)
- Articles of Incorporation or corporate resolution
- Appointment of a resident agent
- Minimum capital remittance (depends on business type)
This step provides you with your corporate registration number.
3. Obtain Local Government Permits
After SEC approval, complete the following:
- Barangay Clearance
- Mayor’s Permit / Business Permit
- Zoning Clearance
- Fire Safety Certificate
These confirm your office location complies with local government regulations.
4. Register with the BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue)
You’ll receive:
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Certificate of Registration (COR)
- Books of Accounts
- Authority to Print Receipts/Invoices
By the end of Month 3, your business is legally ready to operate.
Phase 2: Office Setup & Infrastructure (Months 3–6)
1. Choose the Right Location
Popular areas with strong talent access:
- Makati City
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
- Ortigas Center
- Quezon City business districts
2. Secure Your Office Space
Options include:
- Traditional office lease
- Coworking spaces
- Serviced offices
- Build-to-suit floors
Ensure the landlord provides required documents for your business permits.
3. Fit-Out & Infrastructure Setup
Prepare your physical office:
- Workstations (for 50 seats)
- High-speed fibre internet
- IT equipment (PCs, headsets, routers)
- Access control & security
- Meeting rooms & collaboration areas
- Backup power solutions
A fit-out typically takes 6–10 weeks, depending on the layout.
Phase 3: Recruitment & Hiring (Months 6–9)
1. Build Your Hiring Strategy
Start by identifying roles needed for your 50-seat team:
- Customer Service Executives
- Back-office Analysts
- Finance & Accounting Staff
- Sales Support
- Technical Support
- Team Leaders / Supervisors
- HR & Admin Support
2. Recruitment Timeline
A realistic hiring timeline:
- Week 1–2: Job postings, sourcing, screening
- Week 3–5: Interviews & evaluations
- Week 6–8: Job offers & onboarding prep
- Week 9 onward: First wave of hires begin
3. Mandatory Employee Registrations
All employees must be registered under:
- SSS (Social Security System)
- PhilHealth
- Pag-IBIG Fund
These are government-mandated benefits.
4. Set Up Payroll & HR Policies
Prepare:
- Local employment contracts
- Salary structure
- Leave policies
- Performance KPIs
- Attendance systems
By Month 9, your first 20–25 seats can be occupied.
Phase 4: Launch & Operational Readiness (Months 9–12)
1. Onboarding Programs
Provide:
- Company culture orientation
- Process training
- System access and tools
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
A strong onboarding program improves retention significantly.
2. Implement IT & Security Compliance
For a 50-seat office, ensure:
- VPN access
- Data protection policies
- Secure logins & authentication
- Backup and recovery protocols
3. Scale to Full Capacity
From Month 9 to 12:
- Recruit remaining seats
- Assign team leads
- Implement reporting and productivity dashboards
- Conduct regular performance reviews
By Month 12, your satellite office should be fully operational with all 50 seats running smoothly.
Estimated Budget for a 50-Seat Satellite Office in Manila
Costs vary by industry, location, and design choice.
Typical Cost Categories
- Company registration & permits
- Office lease (3–5 year contracts standard)
- Fit-out & furniture
- IT equipment
- Recruitment expenses
- Salaries & benefits
- Utilities & ongoing overheads
A mid-sized Manila office is more cost-efficient compared to many global markets, especially for service-driven roles.
Common Challenges — and How to Overcome Them
1. Permit Processing Delays
Build buffer time into your schedule.
2. High Employee Demand in Manila
Offer competitive benefits and career development.
3. Cultural Alignment
Invest in leadership training and team-building.
4. Managing Remote Headquarters & Local Teams
Use strong communication frameworks and workflow tools.
Final Thoughts: Launch Your 50-Seat Satellite Office in Manila With Confidence
Setting up a 50-seat satellite office in Manila is a powerful way to scale your business, reduce operational costs, and tap into world-class Filipino talent. With the right roadmap — legal setup, permits, recruitment strategy, and infrastructure — you can become fully operational within 12 months.
If you’re ready to begin your expansion journey and want expert guidance from a trusted global partner, contact Flat Planet to get started.
