If you're asking whether you need a lawyer to draft a contract, legally, the answer is no. Anyone can draft a contract on their own and as long as the elements above are included and both parties are legally competent and consent to the agreement, it is generally lawful.
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.
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.
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with other relevant laws such as the Lending Company Regulation Act and the Usury Law, although the latter is largely outdated due to the Central Bank's removal of interest rate ceilings.
Write the contract in six steps Start with a contract template. Open with the basic information. Describe in detail what you have agreed to. Include a description of how the contract will be ended. Write into the contract which laws apply and how disputes will be resolved. Include space for signatures.