Philippines

KYC & CDD

BSP Issues Directions to Banks on Adverse Media Screening

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 28/05/2025

Banks must include adverse media screening during onboarding and during transaction monitoring to identify financial crime threats.

Operational Risk

BSP Issues Draft Reporting Rules for Trust Entities

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 22/05/2025

Trust entities will have to report additional details on their fiduciary and investment management activities, including data on client risk profiles.

Structural Regulation

BSP Delays Rollout of FX Reporting System to Mid 2026

By Nithya Subramanian | 22/05/2025

Full implementation of the new ITRS has been deferred to allow time to “address emerging technical and report-related concerns”

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Philippines Convenes First Meeting of New Anti-Scams Group

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 18/05/2025

The ASTIG will enhance public awareness campaigns, foster stronger inter-agency cooperation, and empower local officials to better protect their communities

Sustainable Finance

Philippines Unveils $4.5m Initiative to Drive Nature-Based Enterprise Growth

By Mark Johnston | 16/05/2025

The programme includes the establishment of a climate finance lab and climate data platforms for research in Nature-Based Solutions finance.

Anti-Money Laundering

Philippines AMLC Probes Alleged ML of Murdered Billionaire’s Ransom

By Nithya Subramanian | 16/05/2025

Authorities are investigating how PHP 200 million in ransom paid for kidnapped businessman Anson Que was laundered through casino junkets, e-wallets, and crypto.

Capital Adequacy

BSP Seeks to Boost Islamic Banking with Relaxed Regulations

By Editors | 14/05/2025

BSP proposes adjustments to capitalisation requirements and reporting procedures to spur growth in the Islamic banking sector

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Philippine Stock Exchange Signs Legal Aid Pact with Bar Association

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 07/05/2025

Under the agreement, stock market investors can receive free legal assistance to address harms such as those caused by securities fraud.

Structural Regulation

Philippines to End A/B Classification of Listed Company Shares

By Editors | 03/05/2025

Industry says phasing out the A/B share classification structure will make it simpler for investors and improve liquidity, while removing a source of arbitrage