Implementing rules on 99-year land lease law out
The government has finalized the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the new law extending the maximum land lease period for foreign investors, a reform seen to help attract more long-term investments into the Philippines.
On Thursday, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Board of Investments (BOI) announced the signing of the IRR for Republic Act No. 12252, which amended the 32-year-old Investors’ Lease Act.
The law, signed by President Marcos three months earlier, allows foreign investors to lease private land for up to 99 years, from the previous 75-year limit.
Under the IRR, landowners are required to have leased contracts annotated on the land title. The DTI said this ensures that lease agreements are binding to the public and strengthens legal protection for both landowners and lessees.
The amended law also requires that lease contracts must be registered with the Registry of Deeds of the city or province where the leased property is located. This applies to all private lands leased by foreign investors.
The DTI said the IRR would reduce “bureaucratic friction” in leasing private land by clearly outlining compliance requirements and setting specific timelines for government agencies to process applications.
‘Business-friendly’
“Our goal is to establish the Philippines as a top global investment destination. This signing provides the long-term security our investors need and proves that we are serious about creating a more competitive and business-friendly nation,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said.
Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo emphasized that the IRR would be crucial in unlocking investment opportunities while putting in place safeguards.
Meanwhile, Bases Conversion and Development Authority president and CEO Joshua Bingcang said the measure gives investors the stability they need to compete with other countries in the region.
The IRR was signed by Roque and Land Registration Authority Administrator Panga Sirios in New Clark City on Dec. 19. It was published on Dec. 20 and is set to take effect on Jan. 4, 2026.
