SEC cuts filing fees for MSMEs

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to implement a discounted rates on filing fees for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to ease costs, encourage formalization, and expand access to capital for smaller businesses.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2025, issued on Wednesday, MSMEs registering as a corporation get a 20 percent discount on registration fees. 

Those amending their articles of incorporation to increase capital stock will receive a 25 percent discount on filing fees. These rates will apply until 31 December.

Meanwhile, MSMEs looking to tap the capital market will benefit from a 50 percent discount on securities registration fees, effective until 30 June 2026.

“MSMEs are the backbone of our business sector, accounting for more than 99 percent of all businesses in the country and generating millions of jobs for our fellow Filipinos,” SEC Chairperson Francis Lim said on Thursday.

“This policy represents our strong resolve to help bring down the barriers to entry of small businesses to ensure they can grow, thrive, and continuously contribute to economic growth,” he added.

The SEC is using the asset size classifications under Republic Act No. 9501, or the Magna Carta for MSMEs, to determine eligibility.

Micro enterprises are those with assets up to P3 million; small enterprises up to P15 million; and medium enterprises up to P100 million. 

Applicants for capital stock increases and securities registration must submit a signed certification from their company president or treasurer, attesting to their asset size excluding the value of land where offices, plants, or equipment are located.