# Supreme Court Approves E-Notarization Rules, Paving the Way for Digital Transformation in Legal Processes The Supreme Court of the Philippines has taken a groundbreaking step toward modernizing legal services by approving the Rules on Electronic Notarization (E-Notarization Rules). This reform, which aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency in notarial services nationwide, is a significant milestone in the country's digital transformation efforts. For a comprehensive overview of [whether electronic notarization is legal in the Philippines](/blog/is-electronic-notarization-legal-in-the-philippines/) — including the three modes and key safeguards — see our detailed explainer. Under A.M. No. 24-10-14-SC, the Supreme Court En Banc has approved both the E-Notarization Rules and the Guidelines on the Accreditation of Electronic Notarization Facility Providers (Accreditation Guidelines). A key feature of these new rules is the introduction of Electronic Notaries Public (ENPs), who are now authorized to perform notarial acts for individuals across the Philippines and, in certain cases, even those abroad. This reform addresses the limitations of the 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice, which restricted notaries public to performing notarizations only within their respective territorial jurisdictions. By expanding the jurisdiction of ENPs, the Supreme Court ensures that individuals, particularly those in remote and underserved areas, have better access to notarial services. The updated framework introduces two forms of electronic notarization: - **In-Person Electronic Notarization**, where both principals and witnesses must be physically present. - **Remote Electronic Notarization**, which allows principals and witnesses to connect virtually to an ENP via videoconferencing. New to the concept? Our [basic guide to e-notaries in the Philippines](/blog/what-is-e-notary-a-basic-look-at-digital-notaries-in-the-philippines/) covers how each mode works in practice. To ensure security and compliance, the new rules implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), incorporating facial recognition, biometrics, and one-time passwords. These measures align with regulations set by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Additionally, the integrity of the electronic notarial book is safeguarded against tampering, and all data stored within Electronic Notarization Facilities (ENFs) are protected under the Data Privacy Act. The E-Notarization Rules apply exclusively to electronic documents in Portable Document Format Archival (PDF/A). Traditional paper documents, including those with handwritten signatures, notarial wills, and depositions, will continue to follow the 2004 Notarial Rules. ### NotarialOS and the Future of E-Notarization [NotarialOS](https://notarialos.com) has been closely engaged with the development of the E-Notarization Rules. Since 2020, the team behind NotarialOS has worked with the Supreme Court's Technical Working Group, providing insights and technical expertise in shaping the regulatory framework. NotarialOS has consistently advocated for the integration of advanced cryptographic technology into legal processes. The platform's tamper-proof digital signature solutions ensure document authenticity and integrity, reinforcing trust in electronic notarization. *About twenty-five years ago, the Philippine Congress empowered the Supreme Court (SC) to issue rules to allow for electronic notarization in the country.* ***There is reason to be optimistic that the time for e-notarization has finally come.*** *"Electronic notarization, when allowed, will complete the legal framework for digitalization of documents in the country."* This long-awaited development is a testament to the Supreme Court's commitment to digitalization and efficiency in legal processes. The collaboration between the Supreme Court and technology providers like NotarialOS marks a significant step forward in the country's legal digital transformation. This is part of a wider shift as [Philippine courts go digital](/blog/philippine-courts-are-going-digital-how-it-affects-lawyers-and-litigants/), affecting how lawyers and litigants interact with the justice system. By leveraging modern technology, including advanced cryptographic technology, electronic notarization is set to unlock billions in value for both the private and public sectors, offering a more efficient, accessible, and secure way of verifying and authenticating documents. To see how these changes are already reshaping different sectors, read about [how technology is transforming legal documentation](/blog/electronic-notarization-how-technology-is-transforming-legal-documentation/). As the E-Notarization Rules take effect 15 days after their publication on March 9, 2025, NotarialOS remains committed to supporting the Supreme Court and other stakeholders in ensuring a seamless transition to a more digital and secure notarization system in the Philippines.