Owning Land/Real Estate in the Philippines – Philippine Consulate General Los Angeles California (2024)

In general, only Filipino citizens and corporations or partnerships with least 60% of the shares are owned by Filipinos are entitled to own or acquire land in the Philippines subject to the following exceptions:

acquired before the 1935 Philippine Constitution
acquired by reason of succession or inheritance (parent/s was/were Filipino citizens at the time of their death)
purchase of not more than 40% interest in a condominium project
Former natural-born Filipinos can own land in the Philippines, subject to limitations prescribed by Philippine Republic Act 8179 (for residence purposes-up to 1000 square meters of urban land or one hectare of rural land) and Batas Pambansa 185 (for business or investment purposes 5000 square meters of urban land or three hectares of rural land).
Filipinos who are married to aliens who retain their Filipino citizenship, unless by their act or omission they have renounced their Filipino citizenship

SAMPLE OF AFFIDAVIT OF PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP FOR BATAS PAMBANSA BLG 185 (CLICK HERE).

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Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the provided article:

Ownership Eligibility for Land in the Philippines: In general, only Filipino citizens and corporations or partnerships with at least 60% Filipino ownership can own or acquire land in the Philippines. This rule is subject to certain exceptions, which include lands acquired before the 1935 Philippine Constitution, those acquired through succession or inheritance from Filipino parents, and the purchase of not more than 40% interest in a condominium project.
Former Natural-Born Filipinos: Former natural-born Filipinos are allowed to own land in the Philippines, but the ownership is subject to limitations set by Philippine Republic Act 8179 for residence purposes (up to 1000 square meters of urban land or one hectare of rural land) and Batas Pambansa 185 for business or investment purposes (5000 square meters of urban land or three hectares of rural land).
Marriage to Aliens: Filipinos who are married to aliens and still retain their Filipino citizenship can own land in the Philippines. However, this right is contingent upon the condition that they have not renounced their Filipino citizenship through their acts or omissions.
Dual Citizens under Republic Act 9225: Dual citizens of the Philippines, as recognized under Philippine Republic Act 9225, can own land in the country without restrictions similar to foreigners or former natural-born Filipinos.
Affidavit of Philippine Citizenship for Batas Pambansa Blg 185: The article mentions the need for a sample of an affidavit of Philippine citizenship for compliance with Batas Pambansa Blg 185. Interested individuals are directed to click on a provided link for a sample.
Additional Resources: The article provides additional resources for more information. These include an outline made by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas and contact details for the Land Registration Authority (LRA), encouraging individuals to seek further clarification from these sources.

In conclusion, individuals seeking to navigate the complex landscape of land ownership in the Philippines should consider consulting the outlined resources, understanding the specific laws and limitations applicable to their situation, and reaching out to the Land Registration Authority for more personalized assistance.