Philippines: Adopted PCC guideline for motu proprio review of mergers and acquisitions in digital markets

On 4 August 2023, the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) issued the guidelines for motu proprio review of mergers and acquisitions in digital markets. The guidelines apply to digital companies, particularly gatekeepers, data-centric firms, innovators, and entities involved in conglomerate transactions or successive acquisitions. The guidelines identify potential competition risks, such as network effects, data concentration, and market share consolidation, urging companies to consult the PCC before proceeding with mergers.