SEC Slashes Fees for Corporate Data:
MC No. 6, Series of 2025
Accessing official corporate documents from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) just became significantly more affordable. The Commission has announced a 50% reduction in fees for requesting corporate documents with the issuance of SEC Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2025 (MC 6, s. 2025), effective July 1, 2025. Signed by SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino on June 24, 2025, underscores the SEC's commitment to enhancing transparency, improving ease of doing business, and reducing regulatory burdens, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The SEC recognizes that equitable and affordable access to corporate information is crucial for a healthy business environment. Lowering these fees directly benefits:
Due Diligence: Makes it cheaper for businesses and investors to conduct thorough due diligence on potential partners, clients, or target companies.
Compliance Verification: Allows easier verification of a company's legal standing and submitted information.
Research & Analysis: Reduces costs for academic researchers, market analysts, and anyone needing corporate data for studies or decision-making.
Reduced Cost of Doing Business: Directly lowers administrative expenses for companies.
What Fees Have Been Slashed?
SEC MC No. 6, s. 2025, significantly reduces the fees for requesting both physical and digital copies of various corporate documents filed with the Commission. Here's a breakdown of the new rates (representing a 50% cut from previous fees under MC No. 10, Series of 2023):
Physical and Authenticated Copies of "Company Filings" (per document):
New Rate: ₱1,000 (previously ₱2,000)
These specific "company filings" include: Articles of Incorporation (AOI) and By-laws (original or amended), General Information Sheet (GIS), Increase in Capital Stock, Board Resolutions, Secretary's Certificates, Registration Data Sheets, and Deeds of Assignment.
Physical and Authenticated Copies of "Other Documents" (per page):
New Rate: ₱50 (previously ₱100)
Physical Plain Copies of "Company Filings" (per document):
New Rate: ₱750 (previously ₱1,500)
Physical Plain Copies of "Other Documents" (per page):
New Rate: ₱25 (previously ₱50)
Digital Authenticated Copies (via eSEARCH) (per document):
New Rate: ₱625 (previously ₱1,250)
Digital Plain Copies (via eSEARCH) (per document):
New Rate: ₱375 (previously ₱750)
(Note: Rates for the SEC API Marketplace, which allows automated data exchange for high-volume users, remain unchanged at ₱10,000 for 100 API calls and ₱50,000 for 1,000 API calls).
How to Avail of the Reduced Fees:
The reduced rates are effective for requests made starting July 1, 2025. You can typically request these documents through:
Physical Request: Visiting an SEC office.
Digital Request (eSEARCH): Utilizing the Electronic SEC Education, Analysis, and Research Computing Hub (eSEARCH) portal for digital copies.
The SEC's Commitment to Accessible Data:
This fee reduction aligns with the SEC's broader thrust towards digitalization and streamlining regulatory processes. By making corporate information more affordable and accessible, the Commission aims to:
Promote greater transparency in the corporate sector.
Empower investors and stakeholders with vital information.
Reduce the financial burden of compliance, especially for MSMEs.
Support data-driven decision-making across the economy.
The issuance of SEC MC No. 6, Series of 2025, is a tangible step by the SEC towards creating a more people-friendly and business-supportive regulatory environment.
Contact us today for a free consultation so we can assist you with your corporate compliance needs.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. SEC regulations are complex and subject to change. Always consult with a qualified legal professional or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for advice tailored to your specific situation and objectives.