E-NOTARIZATION IS HERE

Q: What's new?

The Supreme Court approved the Rules on Electronic Notarization (E-Notarization Rules) on March 9, 2025.

Q: Why is this significant?

It makes notarization faster and more accessible, especially for Filipinos in remote or underserved areas. Unlike traditional notarization under the 2004 Notarial Rules, electronic notarization can now be done nationwide—and in some cases, even for Filipinos abroad.

Q: Who are authorized to do it?

The rules create a new role: Electronic Notaries Public (e-Notary Public). They are specially commissioned notaries who can perform electronic notarizations via approved digital platforms.

Q: How does it work?

There are three modes:

1.⁠ ⁠In-Person e-Notarization (IEN): Parties are physically with the e-Notary Public but use an accredited electronic notarization system.

2.⁠ ⁠Remote Electronic Notarization (REN): Parties connect with the e-Notary Public through special videoconferencing apps.

3.⁠ ⁠Hybrid: A mix of both.

Q: Can any videoconferencing app be used?

No. Notarization must be done through accredited e-Notarization Facilities (ENFs). These are Supreme Court–approved platforms designed for secure electronic notarization. Apps like Zoom or Google Meet can’t be used unless formally accredited.

Q: What about security?

The system uses multi-factor authentication (biometrics, facial recognition, one-time passwords) and complies with BSP and Data Privacy Act standards. All notarized documents are logged in an electronic notarial book protected against tampering.

Q: What types of documents qualify?

Only electronic documents in PDF format. Paper documents, handwritten signatures, notarial wills, and depositions aren't.

Q: When does this take effect?

The Supreme Court has yet to establish the Office of the e-Notary Administrator and a Central Notarial Database for all electronically notarized documents

Q: Does this mean I can skip apostille/consular requirements when selling property from abroad?

Not yet. While the Supreme Court now allows remote e-notarization, agencies like the Registry of Deeds and BIR may still require apostilled or consularized paper documents until they update their rules.