The SEC Goes Fully Digital
(MC 3, Series of 2025)

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has made company registration 100% digital and paperless with SEC Memorandum Circular No. 3, Series of 2025 (MC 3, s. 2025), effective April 7, 2025. This is a game-changer for entrepreneurs and businesses, foreign or local, looking to set up shop in the Philippines.

Goodbye Paperwork: Key Digital Changes

This new SEC directive means:

  • No More Physical Signatures or Notarization: You can now digitally sign and authenticate documents using the Electronic Submission Authentication Portal (eSAP) with a simple One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your phone and email.

  • No More Hard Copies: The entire process, from submitting your application to getting your Certificate of Incorporation, is paperless. No more printing, couriers, or queues.

  • Digital Certificate of Incorporation: Your official Certificate of Incorporation will now be generated and released digitally. It holds the same legal power as a physical one.

  • Register Anytime, Anywhere: The fully digital system means you can apply 24/7, from any location.

How It Works: The Digital Ecosystem

The new process uses integrated SEC online systems:

  • You'll primarily use eSPARC (Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Company) to input your company details.

  • Before that, you must create and verify your secure online identity through eSECURE (Electronic SEC User Registration Environment), which authenticates your TIN with the BIR.

Finally, eSAP uses your eSECURE login and OTP to digitally sign your documents.

Who Needs to Go Digital Now?

Starting April 7, 2025, it's mandatory for:

  • All Domestic Stock Corporations (including One Person Corporations and those with foreign equity).

The SEC will gradually require other entities (like lending companies, financing companies, and foreign corporations) to go digital after three months from MC 3's effectivity.

Benefits for Your Business

This digital leap means:

  • Faster Processing: Significantly reduced waiting times for approvals.

  • Lower Costs: Save on printing, courier fees, and notarization.

  • Increased Accessibility: Register your business from anywhere, without travel.

  • Enhanced Security: Digital authentication adds layers of protection to your application.

Get Ready for Seamless Registration

  • Create Your eSECURE Account: This is your essential first step.

  • Prepare Digital Documents: Have all required supporting documents ready in digital format.

  • Ensure All Signatories are eSECURE-Ready: All incorporators and officers must have active eSECURE accounts.

Embracing this digital shift is key to unlocking a faster, more efficient way to establish and manage your company in the Philippines.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and 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.