Philippines

Operational Risk

BSP Overhauls Bank Reporting Rules, Sets New Penalties

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/03/2026

The BSP has introduced a new governance framework, shortened submission deadlines, and revised penalties to improve the quality of bank data.

Structural Regulation

Philippines SEC Moves to Impose Term Limits on PSE Directors

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/03/2026

The regulator has approved a draft circular for public comment, citing corporate governance, while industry groups warn of negative consequences.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

BSP Directs Banks to Shift to Biometrics, Phases Out SMS OTPs

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/03/2026

New draft rules require banks to adopt server-side biometrics for high-risk transactions to combat fraud, linking compliance to liability.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Philippines Drafts Protocol to Reverse Fraudulent Transactions

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 05/03/2026

The industry-wide framework aims to provide clearer and more reliable timelines for recovering funds stolen through scams and cyberattacks.

Reporting & Disclosures

Philippines Finance Group, State Bank Launch ESG Guide

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 05/03/2026

The guide provides practical advice on integrating ESG principles, with state-owned LANDBANK to distribute it to farmers and cooperatives.

Capital Adequacy

Philippine Rural Banks Warn New Rules Could Stifle Inclusion

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 05/03/2026

An industry group is urging the BSP to rethink proposed prudential rules, arguing that steep capital requirements and geographic limits could harm digitalisation.

Credit Risk

Philippines Central Bank Reviews Lifting Maturity Cap for Salary Loans

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 05/03/2026

The move aims to ease borrower debt burdens and provide repayment flexibility amid slowing national credit growth and calls from public sector employees.

Anti-Money Laundering

Philippines Doubles EDD Threshold for Cash Withdrawals to PHP 1 Million

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 04/03/2026

The move aims to ease the burden on legitimate business transactions while allowing FIs to focus AML resources on higher-risk activities.

Structural Regulation

Philippines to Reopen Online Lending Market, Slashes Rate Cap

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 04/03/2026

The SEC will end a three-year ban on new online lenders from 1 April, aiming to boost competition and enhance credit data infrastructure.