The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is simplifying how the public deals with the regulator, launching a single hotline to cut waiting time and make transactions faster.

The regulator said over the weekend that it has rolled out 1-4732, or 1-4SEC, as its unified number for registration concerns, filing follow-ups, system walkthroughs, and other frontline services.

Reduce busy lines, drop calls

“One of the clear messages we’re getting from the business sector is the need for a more accessible SEC. With the hotline, we hope to reduce instances of busy lines and drop calls, and offer quality and real-time assistance to the public,” SEC chairperson Francis Lim said.

“The new hotline provides a direct, convenient channel for companies to reach the Commission, reinforcing our commitment to improve service delivery,” he added.

The move streamlines a system that currently handles about 800 to 900 calls daily across multiple lines.

All inquiries shifted to 1-4SEC

The SEC is phasing out these direct numbers and shifting all inquiries to 1-4SEC, with call takers and warm transfers ensuring concerns reach the right office.

“By providing smoother transactions to the public through 1-4SEC, we hope to strengthen the public’s trust and confidence in our systems, and encourage them to participate in the corporate sector and capital markets to contribute to the country’s overall economic growth,” Lim said.