Integrated Bar of the Philippines as a Corporation

The IBP possesses perpetual succession and juridical personality.
It has powers to sue and be sued, enter into contracts, own and dispose of real and personal property.
The IBP can mortgage, lease, sell, transfer, convey, and dispose of such properties.
It may solicit and receive donations, contributions, gifts, devises, or bequests from public and private sources.
It may levy and collect membership dues and special assessments from members.
The IBP is authorized to adopt and alter its corporate seal.
It may establish offices and conduct activities in the Greater Manila Area and other locations.
The IBP may make and adopt bylaws, rules, and regulations consistent with Philippine laws and the Rules of Court, specifically Rule 139-A.
It can perform acts necessary to effectuate and promote its organizational purposes.

Donations or contributions from private entities or individuals to the IBP are exempt from income and gift taxes.
Such donations are fully deductible and excluded from the computation of maximum deductible amounts under the National Internal Revenue Code.
Any taxes, charges, and fees paid by the IBP or its chapters to the government or its subdivisions shall be refundable annually for the period up to December 31, 1978.

The Government shall donate or lease to the IBP a parcel of land in the Greater Manila Area at nominal rent.
The donated or leased property may be used to construct an IBP building and may be mortgaged or encumbered by the IBP.
The Government appropriates five hundred thousand pesos from the National Treasury for the IBP's purposes for the fiscal year 1973-1974.

This Decree does not limit or prejudice the Supreme Court's constitutional authority to enact rules.
It specifically respects the provisions of Court Rule 139-A.

The IBP was established pursuant to the Supreme Court's rule-making power and Republic Act No. 6397.
It was organized to elevate the standards of the legal profession, improve justice administration, and enhance the Bar's public responsibilities.
The law recognizes the merit of governmental and public support for the IBP, especially in its formative years.