Lending agreements are governed by the Civil Code of the Philippines, along with other relevant laws such as the Lending Company Regulation Act and the Usury Law, although the latter is largely outdated due to the Central Bank's removal of interest rate ceilings.
While not required by law, having the promissory note notarized can provide additional legal protection and evidentiary weight in court should any dispute arise over its enforcement.
A contract, under Philippine law, becomes binding as soon as there is mutual consent between the parties, consideration (payment or exchange of services), and a lawful object (subject matter of the agreement). These elements are enough to form a valid and enforceable contract, even without notarization.
You can find your agreement number on your credit agreement.
Your agreement number can be found on your welcome letter/email, just below the date, or any other communication sent by us. Alternatively, you should see this as your Direct Debit reference number on your bank statement, or in your online banking.
Outline how you will handle disagreements or misunderstandings. Agree to celebrate each other's achievements and special occasions. Specify if this is a temporary agreement or ongoing. Include a clause that allows for changes to the contract as the friendship evolves.