The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) warns the public against engaging with unregistered entities and online platforms offering crypto-asset services to Filipinos without the required registration or authorization, as mandated under SEC Memorandum Circular Nos. 4 and 5, Series of 2025 (CASP Rules and Guidelines). These rules, effective July 5, 2025, cover individuals and entities involved in promoting or facilitating crypto trading, including buying, selling, and derivatives transactions. The SEC highlights its continued enforcement efforts following the geo-blocking of Binance, identifying other platforms that remain non-compliant. The public is further cautioned that unregistered crypto platforms pose a high risk of being exploited for money laundering and terrorist financing, as they operate without proper anti-money laundering controls and outside regulatory oversight. Such vulnerabilities could expose the country to cross-border financial crimes and reputational risks, including the threat of being gray-listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
To safeguard your investments, the public is advised not to invest in or trade through crypto platforms that are not registered with the SEC. Exercise caution when encountering crypto promotions, especially those circulated by influencers, on social media, or through mobile apps targeting Filipino users, as these may involve unlicensed or fraudulent schemes. If you encounter any unauthorized offering, selling, or marketing of crypto-assets, report the activity to the SEC through the following channels: [email protected] (Enforcement and Investor Protection Department), [email protected] (Cyber and Forensics Division), or email [email protected] for registration and licensing inquiries related to crypto-asset service providers.
