The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the Philippines has extended the availability of reduced corporate registration fees for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) until 31 December 2026.

This extension was formalised through SEC Memorandum Circular No. 13, Series of 2026, issued on 26 March.

Under this directive, eligible MSMEs will continue to receive a 20% discount on their corporate registration costs.

The SEC reported that these reduced rates, originally implemented on 16 July 2025, have already saved registering businesses approximately P54.77 million.

SEC Chairperson Francis Lim noted that these financial savings help local entrepreneurs gain legal recognition and secure necessary credit.

“By extending these discounted rates through the end of 2026, we are reaffirming our commitment to the accessibility and affordability of doing business in the Philippines,” Lim stated.

Additionally, a separate 50% discount on the registration of securities for MSMEs will remain valid until 30 June 2026.

To qualify for this specific securities discount, applicants must submit a qualification certificate signed by their president or treasurer.

Additionally, these businesses must generally maintain a paid-up capital of PHP 25 million.

Exceptions to the capital requirement exist for firms using the streamlined securities registration process for agricultural businesses.

The SEC determines MSME eligibility based on the asset size criteria outlined in the Magna Carta for MSMEs.

This framework categorises micro enterprises as having assets up to PHP 3 million, small businesses up to PHP 15 million, and medium enterprises up to PHP 100 million.

Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Philippines based on an image by odua via Freepik.