The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has extended its discounted filing fee program for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) until December 31, 2026, aiming to integrate smaller businesses into the local capital market.
As outlined in SEC Memorandum Circular No. 19, the initiative retains a 50% reduction on securities registration fees. Through this cost-cutting measure, the regulatory body seeks to incentivize smaller firms to explore public fundraising channels rather than depending solely on traditional bank loans.
The fee reduction applies to corporate securities registered for public offerings. It specifically targets businesses utilizing the SEC’s streamlined registration frameworks, including real estate developers, healthcare facilities, agricultural firms, and power generation or distribution utilities.
This financial relief belongs to a broader package of fee adjustments designed to support the MSME sector. Alongside the public offering markdown, the SEC maintains a 20% discount on filing fees for small businesses during their initial corporate registration. Meanwhile, a separate 25% discount for capital increases through amended articles of incorporation wrapped up at the close of 2025.
According to commission statistics, the program has yielded substantial results since it launched on July 16, 2025, distributing roughly ₱139.6 million in total cumulative discounts to small enterprises.
To establish program eligibility, the SEC follows the asset thresholds defined by Republic Act No. 9501, also known as the Magna Carta for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. This legal framework defines micro enterprises as holding assets up to ₱3 million, small enterprises up to ₱15 million, and medium enterprises up to ₱100 million.
Companies interested in availing of the discount must submit a formal Certification of MSME Qualification, authenticated by the firm’s president or treasurer.
While the SEC typically mandates a minimum paid-up capital of ₱25 million for applicants, this requirement is waived for agribusinesses using the commission’s expedited registration process.