SEC extends discounted filing fees to bolster MSME growth and capital access

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially extended discounted registration and filing rates for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), reaffirming its commitment to lowering the barriers to entry for Filipino entrepreneurs.

Under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 2, Series of 2026, the Commission aims to provide small businesses with additional time to formalize their operations and tap into the capital markets at a significantly reduced cost.

The new circular extends relief across two primary categories:

• Corporate Registration (20% Discount): Now available until March 31, 2026.

• Securities Registration (50% Discount): Now available until June 30, 2026.

The 50% discount on securities registration also applies to companies utilizing the SEC’s streamlined processes, including power generation firms, real estate developers (rental pool deals), agri-business firms, and hospitals.

Since the initiative was first introduced in July 2025, the program has provided substantial financial relief to the business community. As of December 2025, the SEC has granted ₱34.5 million in discounts, benefiting 15,425 MSMEs. “The SEC is entering the new year with a renewed commitment to support the expansion of MSMEs, given their crucial role in driving the country’s economic growth,” said SEC Chairperson Francis Lim. “The discounted fees will help ease the cost of compliance and encourage more entrepreneurs to formalize and tap the capital market for the expansion of their businesses.”

The SEC continues to follow the asset-based classification set by Republic Act No. 9501 (Magna Carta for MSMEs):

To avail of the 50% discount for securities registration, applicants must:

1. Submit a Certification of MSME Qualification signed by the company’s president or treasurer.

2. Maintain a paid-up capital of ₱25 million (This requirement is waived for agri-businesses filing through the streamlined registration process).