The rules have changed, and notarial practice in the Philippines is entering a new chapter.
On February 4, 2025, the Supreme Court issued A.M. No. 24-10-14-SC. That means electronic notarization is now officially recognized. For the first time, notaries can perform their duties online through secure digital platforms.
This is not a theory. It’s real, and it’s already in effect.
If you’re still relying only on face-to-face appointments and manual logbooks, now is the time to start preparing. More and more clients will begin asking for faster, more flexible options. And they will go to notaries who are ready.
Hindi ‘to para sa tech-savvy lang. It’s for every notary who wants to protect their practice, serve better, and stay relevant.
You don’t need to rush into anything. But you do need to start paying attention. The sooner you understand what this shift means, the better positioned you’ll be.
What Exactly Changed in the New E-Notarization Rules?
Online notarization is now part of your professional reality. The next step is to understand what that means for your day-to-day processes.
The Supreme Court’s new rules make it clear: electronic notarization is now part of official notarial practice in the Philippines. And with that come new expectations.
Here’s what’s in the rules:
1. Remote notarization is now legal
Notaries can conduct notarization through secure video conferencing. This includes administering oaths, verifying identities, and witnessing signatures in real time.
2. Digital signatures and seals are allowed
Notaries may use electronic signatures and digital seals. These must be encrypted and tamper-proof to maintain the integrity of each notarized document.
3. Strict identity verification is required
All signers must undergo an identity verification process. This can involve secure ID scanning, facial recognition, or other technology-based methods.
4. All sessions must be recorded
Every notarization must be documented, including the video call. These recordings will form part of the digital notarial register and must be securely stored for a minimum of 10 years.
5. Only secure, compliant tools may be used
The Supreme Court requires the use of digital tools that meet its official security and technical standards. Unofficial platforms are not allowed.
Why This Actually Matters for Notaries
RELATED: Supreme Court Releases Rules on Electronic Notarization
Let’s be real. Most notaries in the Philippines ask one thing first: “May kikitain ba ako diyan?”
The answer is yes. But it’s not just about income. Electronic notarization opens doors to serving more clients, working more efficiently, and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
You won’t be limited to walk-in clients anymore. You can notarize for OFWs who need documents urgently from abroad. You can help business owners in provinces where notarial services are limited.
Even busy professionals who can’t leave the office will be able to complete transactions remotely through you.
This also means no more wasted time printing documents, scanning IDs, or dealing with courier delays. Every transaction is stored, secured, and easier to retrieve when needed.
And here’s the most crucial part: clients are going to start expecting this. Once they learn online notarization is allowed, they’ll look for notaries who can do it. If you’re not ready, they will go to someone who is.
This is not a trend. The rules are already in place. The shift is happening. If you want to stay competitive, now’s the time to prepare.
How to Get Started with E-Notarization
If you’re thinking, “Sounds good, pero paano magsimula?” now’s the right time to take small but steady steps. Familiarity today means less stress later.
1. Familiarize yourself with the rules
Read A.M. No. 24-10-14-SC carefully. Understand what the Supreme Court requires when it comes to identity verification, secure platforms, and digital signing.
2. Learn the basic tech features involved
Start understanding what tools might be needed later on. This includes video conferencing, digital signatures, and secure document storage. You don't need to choose a platform yet, but being aware of the options helps.
3. Get your documents in order
Keep a copy of your notarial commission, a valid government-issued ID, and other supporting files. These might be helpful when implementation begins.
4. Follow credible legal sources
The rules may be updated over time. Stay informed through the Supreme Court’s official releases or trusted legal organizations.
5. Attend upcoming learning sessions
Join free events designed to help notaries understand the new rules and what to prepare. One session will be held on May 14, specifically for Filipino legal professionals exploring electronic notarization.
Learn How to Become a Certified E-Notary in the Philippines
You already know the rules have changed. The next step is understanding how to move forward with confidence.
That’s why we’re inviting you to a free online learning session for Filipino notaries, legal professionals, and compliance officers. It’s called “Explaining the New Notarial Rules and How It Will Affect You,” and it’s happening on Wednesday, May 14 at 1:30 PM (PHT).
In this one-hour session, you’ll learn what the new rules mean in everyday practice, what to prepare, what to avoid, and how e-notarization platforms are expected to work based on global models.
This is part of an ongoing conversation about the future of notarial practice in the Philippines. Atty. Gino Jacinto and the UNAWA team are committed to helping you navigate these changes with clarity, not hype.
All attendees will receive a certificate of participation.
Ready to take the first step? Reserve your free ticket here.
