The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has launched the first Green Equity Guidelines in Southeast Asia, marking another step in advancing sustainable finance in the region.

Issued on September 23 through SEC Memorandum Circular No. 13, Series of 2025, the new guidelines outline the Philippine Green Equity Label, designed to expand sustainable investments and complement the country’s ₱1.02 trillion sustainable finance fixed-income market.

“The issuance of the SEC Green Equity Guidelines is a game-changing initiative that will help develop the capital market not only by boosting liquidity but also by supporting our climate goals,” said SEC Chairperson Francis Lim. “This also positions the country as an emerging destination for foreign investors seeking credible, transparent, and meaningful green investments.”

Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, companies must be listed—or preparing to list—on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) and derive at least 50% of revenues and investments from eligible Green Activities under the Philippine Sustainable Finance Taxonomy Guidelines (SFTG) or the ASEAN Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance (ATSF). Revenue from fossil fuels must not exceed 5%.

Applicants are required to submit an external review assessment to the SEC, with results made publicly available. Label holders will undergo annual compliance reviews by the PSE.

Transition Measures
The SEC has also provided relief measures for firms still transitioning toward full alignment with the SFTG or ATSF. However, applicants must prove that their Green Activities make a substantial contribution to at least one environmental objective and do not cause harm or violate social safeguards.