In a sweeping move to establish stronger investor protections and regulatory clarity, the Philippines Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rolled out a comprehensive new framework aimed at digital asset firms. These Philippines crypto regulations now demand stricter compliance on multiple fronts – from corporate registration to token issuance disclosures and influencer accountability.
Token Issuers Must Provide Full Transparency
At the heart of the new Philippines crypto regulations lies a robust disclosure requirement for any crypto-related public offering. Firms must now submit a comprehensive disclosure document to the SEC at least 30 days before launching any token sales. These documents must detail the token’s utility, technical architecture, risk disclosures, team background, and how funds will be used. This preemptive measure is intended to eliminate ambiguity for investors and align the crypto market with traditional financial disclosures.
Local Presence and Capitalization Now Mandatory
Beyond token offerings, the new rules require all crypto companies operating in the country to register as domestic corporations and maintain a physical office in the Philippines. These firms must also present a minimum paid-up capital of ₱100 million (~$1.8 million), ensuring only well-capitalized businesses participate in the ecosystem. This step not only formalizes business operations but also helps authorities monitor market behavior more effectively.
Stricter Oversight, Data Control, and Daily Reporting
The Philippines crypto regulations also significantly tighten operational controls. The Philippines crypto regulations also introduce much stricter operational controls. Companies are now required to submit daily transaction reports. They must also comply with anti-money laundering (AML) laws. In addition, they are obligated to follow counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations. Another key requirement is that user data must be stored within the Philippines.
These rules are designed to improve transparency and security. Moreover, any violations could result in serious consequences. Offending firms may face fines of up to ₱10 million. They could also be sentenced to imprisonment for up to five years. This highlights the strong emphasis placed on regulatory compliance.
Marketing and Influencer Promotions Under Watch
Interestingly, the regulatory scope now extends to marketing channels and influencers. If a content creator, influencer, or even a third-party media agency receives any form of compensation for promoting a crypto project, they must also register with the SEC. Under the new Philippines crypto regulations, such activities are considered part of a securities offering and are therefore subject to oversight. Crypto firms are held liable for the actions of their promotional partners, further pushing accountability across the entire marketing chain.
SEC and BSP Coordination: Dual Oversight Begins
Previously, crypto firms operated mainly under the supervision of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). BSP regulated them through the Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) framework. However, the new regulations introduce a clearer division of responsibilities. BSP will continue to handle financial stability and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will now manage investment-related activities. The SEC is also in charge of token sales and investor protection. As a result, this dual-agency approach strengthens oversight. It ensures both financial operations and securities offerings in crypto are properly regulated.
The regulations took effect in June 2025, with existing firms being granted 30 days to align their operations with the updated rules. While this shift may prove difficult for small startups, the move aims to eliminate fly-by-night operators and create a more secure, trusted ecosystem. Over time, it is expected to attract more institutional interest and open doors to mainstream crypto adoption in the Philippines.
Conclusion: Regulations as a Catalyst for Maturity
The new Philippines crypto regulations may appear burdensome at first glance, especially for smaller players. However, they represent a maturing market intent on protecting investors and building long-term credibility. By encouraging transparency, accountability, and compliance, the Philippines is positioning itself as a responsible leader in the evolving global crypto space.
