Establishing a business in Bohol can be a rewarding path to residency, income, and community integration. The island’s growing tourism sector, developing infrastructure, and welcoming local market offer diverse opportunities for entrepreneurs. At Move 2 Bohol, we guide you through every legal, financial, and operational step—from choosing the right structure to opening your doors—ensuring your venture is built on a solid, compliant foundation.
Business Structure Options
Selecting the correct legal structure is your first critical decision, impacting liability, taxation, and your ability to operate. The most common options for expats are Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Corporation.
A Sole Proprietorship is the simplest and most common for small, locally-focused businesses. It is owned and operated by one individual. The owner has full control but bears unlimited personal liability for all debts and obligations. This structure is typically suitable for foreigners married to Filipino citizens, as 100% foreign ownership of a sole proprietorship is generally not permitted in many retail and service sectors.
Forming a Corporation is often the preferred route for foreign investors, especially for larger ventures or those requiring foreign ownership. A standard domestic corporation requires a minimum of five incorporators.
Crucially, in many sectors protected by the Philippine Constitution’s 60/40 rule, foreign ownership is limited to 40% of the company’s capital. This makes securing trustworthy Filipino partners essential. The corporation is a separate legal entity, shielding personal assets from business liabilities. This structure is ideal for businesses like restaurants, retail shops, tourism services, and, notably, educational or sports academies.
We will analyze your business goals, capital, and risk tolerance to recommend the optimal structure and handle all registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and local municipal offices.
Franchise Opportunities in Bohol
For those seeking a proven business model with brand recognition and support, franchising is an excellent, lower-risk entry into the Bohol market. Opportunities range from international food and beverage brands to local Philippine success stories in retail, services, and education.
A standout and unique opportunity we are proud to facilitate is the Elite Youth Baseball Academy franchise. In partnership with the established Bohol Coconuts Baseball & Softball Club, this franchise allows you to launch a premium youth sports development center.
The package includes certified coaching curricula, equipment sourcing, operational training, and marketing support. With the growing popularity of baseball in the Philippines and a lack of formal training facilities on Bohol, this franchise represents a first-mover advantage in a passionate community niche. It’s more than a business; it’s a chance to build a positive legacy and become a cornerstone of youth development on the island.
Due Diligence Services
Entering a new market requires vigilant verification. Our due diligence services protect your investment by uncovering potential risks before you commit. We conduct comprehensive checks tailored to your venture, including Property & Title Due Diligence for land or leasehold rights; Financial & Operational Review of existing businesses you may be purchasing; Market Feasibility Analysis to validate demand and competition; and Legal & Compliance Audit to ensure the business meets all regulatory requirements and has no hidden liabilities. We provide you with a clear, unbiased report, empowering you to make informed decisions with confidence.
Local Partner Matching
For businesses requiring Filipino equity under the 60/40 rule, finding a reliable, aligned, and trustworthy local partner is paramount. This is more than a legal formality—it’s a key strategic relationship.
Our Local Partner Matching service leverages Lerma Moore’s deep community networks and standing as a Barangay Councilor to connect you with pre-vetted, reputable Filipino entrepreneurs or investors.
We facilitate introductions, help align business visions, and assist in drafting clear partnership agreements that define roles, responsibilities, and profit-sharing. We focus on creating synergistic partnerships built on transparency and mutual respect, which are the foundation of long-term business success in the Philippines.
Let us turn your business vision for Bohol into a thriving, compliant reality. Contact us to schedule a consultation and discuss your entrepreneurial goals.