Why it matters:
MSMEs make up 99 percent of Philippine businesses and generate more than 60 percent of local jobs, yet face steep challenges accessing formal credit. The SEC aims to democratize access to capital markets and reduce regulatory bottlenecks for small businesses.
“You are not just participants in our economy. You are its lifeblood—community builders, job creators, innovators,” said SEC Chair Francis Lim, addressing attendees.
Key details:
The caravan was led by the SEC Office for the Advancement of Strategic Investments in SMEs.
It featured the Juan Knowledge Series with panel discussions on:
Business registration
Sustainability reporting
Investor protection
The Juan-on-One Helpdesk allowed MSMEs to raise concerns on SEC processes, digital services, and capital-raising options.
MSMEs showcased their products through Juan Negosyo Lane, connecting them to customers and potential investors.
Between the lines:
According to Lim, a 2023 ADB study found that a majority of microenterprises and over half of SMEs still lack access to formal credit—a gap the capital markets can help close.
“This is where the capital market becomes your ally,” he said. “It opens doors beyond traditional bank loans and enables innovation and global competitiveness.”
Broader partnerships:
The SEC teamed up with:
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
Small Business Corporation
National Development Company
Manila Angel Investors Network
Eastern Securities-RoundOne
DragonFi Securities, Inc., the first accredited PERA administrator
These partners shared alternative financing strategies, including crowdfunding and receivables financing under the Personal Property Security Act (RA 11057).
Reform watch:
To cut red tape and support business growth, the SEC is:
Reducing corporate document fees by 50 percent under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2025
Finalizing lower capital-raising fees
Expanding OneSEC, the one-day registration platform, to more sectors beyond the current 33
Deeming backlogged applications as approved, subject to certain conditions, to address over 26,000 pending filings, mostly from MSMEs
The big picture:
The SEC’s reform agenda aims to empower MSMEs to go beyond survival, with hopes that some will eventually list on the SME Board, signaling their growth and long-term viability.
“We look forward to seeing more MSMEs not just surviving, but thriving—and, one day, taking the next big leap,” Lim said. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
