SEC Offers Up to 50% Filing Fee Discounts to MSMEs, Bolstering Support for Small Businesses

MAKATI CITY, Philippines – In a move set to provide substantial financial relief and encouragement to the backbone of the Philippine economy, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced discounted rates on several key transactions for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The Commission's latest directive, Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2025, issued on July 16, directly aims to "Further Supporting the Growth and Expansion of MSMEs by Providing Discounted Rates for Certain Filing Fees."

This initiative solidifies the SEC's commitment to the development of small businesses, acknowledging the vital role MSMEs play in job creation and economic dynamism across the country. By reducing the financial burden associated with regulatory compliance, the SEC seeks to empower these enterprises to channel more resources into their operations, innovation, and expansion.

The new circular provides clear definitions for MSME classifications based on total asset size:

1. Micro: Not more than Php3,000,000.00 

2. Small: Php3,000,001.00 to Php15,000,000.00 3. Medium: Php15,000,001.00 to Php100,000,000.00 

These asset size thresholds are crucial for businesses to determine their eligibility for the discounts.

The SEC has implemented specific discount structures for various key filing fees, with different validity periods:

1. Registration of Corporation: MSMEs can avail a 20% discount until December 31, 2025.

2. Amendment of Articles of via Increase in Capital Stock: A 25% discount is offered until December 31, 2025. For this specific discount, a certification signed by the President or Treasurer is required, confirming the total asset size, which includes loans but excludes the land where the office, plant, or equipment are located. This 25% discount is available only to registered MSMEs as of the circular's effectivity date.

3. Registration of Securities: A substantial 50% discount is available for MSMEs until June 30, 2026.

These targeted reductions aim to ease the financial burden associated with crucial corporate actions, encouraging more businesses to formalize, expand, and comply with regulatory requirements. The initiative underscores the SEC's commitment to fostering a more supportive and conducive environment for MSMEs, which are recognized as vital drivers of economic growth and employment nationwide.

The issuance of this circular aligns with the broader national agenda of improving the ease of doing business in the Philippines and supports recent efforts by the SEC, including the implementation of stricter processing timelines and the "deemed approved" rule for applications. By making regulatory compliance more affordable and efficient, the Commission hopes to foster a more inclusive and robust corporate sector where MSMEs can thrive without disproportionate administrative costs.

Businesses falling under the MSME classification are encouraged to review SEC Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2025, and contact the Commission or their compliance professionals for detailed information on eligible transactions and how to avail themselves of these new discounted rates. This new policy marks a tangible step towards creating a more supportive regulatory environment for small and medium enterprises throughout the Philippines.

References:

• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2025. "Further Supporting the Growth and Expansion of MSMEs by Providing Discounted Rates for Certain Filing Fees." Issued July 16, 2025.