Philippines SEC lays down rules for crypto service providers
The Philippines’ Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially released guidelines governing crypto asset service providers (CASPs). Entities offering such services must obtain a license and register before operating in the country. Under the new rules, all CASPs must register as a stock corporation in the Philippines with a paid-up capital of at least PHP100 million ($1.8 million), excluding digital assets.
According to Atty. Paolo Ong, Assistant Director at the SEC, these guidelines aim to support local players and address unregistered entities marketing or inducing the purchase of digital assets. Individuals promoting specific products or platforms, especially fraudulent ones, may face enforcement actions.
The SEC currently does not require licensing for crypto financial advisors, including in digital asset markets.