The focus of the Special Projects Group is on projects that require the combined expertise of the various practice groups. The Group's work ranges from project finance transactions to highly specialized work such as developing comprehensive legislative proposals on behalf of governmental agencies. Because of the complexity and diversity of the matters handled, the Group gives premium to flexibility and responsiveness. The Group is confident in its ability to assemble, even on short notice, project teams uniquely qualified to undertake even the most complex and difficult assignments.

• Currently acting as counsel to the International Finance Corporation (IFC)-Advisory Group in relation to the bidding process for the US$156-million expansion of the light rail system in Metro Manila. Work includes: (i) providing assistance to IFC and a team of technical consultants in structuring/implementing an open/competitive bid process (i.e. "Swiss Challenge process) to select a contractor/investor for the project; (ii) providing assistance in negotiations with the potential investor and challengers and the drafting of all legal and contractual documents required for the proposed transaction; (iii) review of all legal and regulatory conditions and requirements required by all relevant government regulatory bodies; and (iv) obtaining all necessary government approvals for the transaction.

• Acted as local legal consultant to the buyer in the first successful acquisition of non-performing assets and establishment of special purpose company under the new Philippine Special Purpose Asset Vehicle (SPV) Law. Work included providing representation in bidding procedures and assistance in structuring the transaction, drafting of transaction documents, negotiation with the seller and its legal and financial agents, processing and obtaining all government requirements and approvals for completion of the transaction, and setting up the special purpose company for the disposition of the acquired assets.

•Acted as local counsel for an international conglomerate in the negotiations and transaction closing in relation to its acquisition of one of the largest call centers in the Philippines.

•Served as legislative consultant for The Department of Energy regarding the preparation of comprehensive legislation for the Philippine Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Industry.

• Acted as counsel for a European Multi-national company in the submission of a build-operate-and-transfer (BOT) proposal to handle solid waste management for the Metropolitan Manila area.

• Served as counsel for a proposed entertainment and leisure project which features a racecourse concession. Work focuses on the most tax-efficient and viable structure for raising project financing and handling of operations.

• Advised several Japanese locators who are in the preliminary stages of setting up operations in the Philippines. Work includes drafting of principal contracts and establishment of local contact network preparatory to full project implementation.