Law Summary
Amendment to Section 10: Advertising
- CPAs are prohibited from advertising their professional attainments or services, except when stating qualifications in employment applications.
- Publication of authorship, lectures, studies, and activities beneficial to the profession are not considered advertising.
- Developing and maintaining a website as provided in Section 20 is explicitly stated as not being advertising.
Amendment to Section 20: Solicitation and Advertising
- CPAs in public accounting may not seek clients through solicitation.
- Advertising is considered a form of solicitation.
- Announcements are permitted only for specific firm-related changes: opening new office, partner changes, office relocation, telephone number updates, or firm reorganization.
- Such announcements must contain only basic, essential information and be of reasonable size.
- These announcements may be made to clients and other professional contacts.
- Firm name listings in building directories or entrance doors are permissible if modest and tasteful.
- Firm stationery must maintain professional dignity, listing basic firm details without specialty claims.
- Listings in telephone or business directories must avoid bold or display formats.
- Firm publications/brochures may be distributed to clients and professional contacts.
Special Provisions on Media Releases and Commemorations
- Press releases, media announcements, newspaper supplements, or similar commemorative events marking CPA practice anniversaries are allowed once every five years.
- These must be factual and avoid detailed service listings.
- Such activities should emphasize achievements contributing to nation-building, goodwill, or professional image enhancement.
Website Guidelines for CPAs
- CPAs may develop and maintain websites without limits on length or style, including announcements, press releases, publications, names, educational attainments, service listings, and contact information.
- Websites must not contain self-laudatory statements designed to solicit clients.
Mandatory Display of Certificates and Licenses
- CPAs in public accounting must display the following in conspicuous office locations and on websites:
- Securities and Exchange Commission Certificate registering partnership Articles
- Department of Trade and Industry Certificate registering firm/partnership name
- Board of Accountancy and Professional Regulation Commission Certificates accrediting the firm/partnership
- All other legally required licenses, permits, or certificates
Effectivity of the Resolution
- The resolution takes effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a general circulation newspaper, whichever is earlier.