SEC launches program to boost sustainability reporting compliance
MANILA, Philippines — The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has launched a capacity-building program to help companies and reporting practitioners comply with the new sustainability reporting framework.
The initiative supports the implementation of SEC Memorandum Circular No. 16, Series of 2025, which introduces the SEC sustainability reporting framework consistent with standards set by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).
The program was formally launched during the ISSB Reporting Practitioners Forum held on Feb. 20.
The event was organized in partnership with the Philippine Sustainability Reporting Committee, the IFRS Foundation and the United Nations Development Program.
SEC chair Francis Lim said the commission aims to make the transition to the new sustainability disclosure framework both credible and practical for reporting entities.
READ: SEC adopts new rules on sustainability reporting
Training session
“To ensure that our transition to ISSB-aligned reporting is credible and workable, the SEC has convened global and local experts and will conduct a comprehensive capacity-building initiative throughout the year,” Lim said.
The forum included a training session led by IFRS foundation director of corporate outreach Neil Stewart, which focused on helping preparers better understand the key ISSB requirements for high-quality sustainability disclosures.
A question-and-answer session followed with participation from Michiel van der Lof of Ernst & Young. The event also featured a panel discussion where sustainability reporting leaders shared insights and strategies to strengthen investor-focused sustainability disclosures aligned with ISSB standards.
READ: Philippines leads expert discussion on sustainability reporting
For the rest of 2026
SEC Commissioner Rogelio V. Quevedo said the Commission is complementing regulatory direction with practical support for companies adjusting to the new reporting framework.
The capacity-building series will run throughout 2026 and will focus on helping entities operationalize ISSB-aligned reporting requirements, including strengthening governance systems, data management, internal controls and documentation needed for consistent and decision-useful sustainability disclosures.
READ: Preparing Philippine businesses for sustainability compliance
The SEC also encouraged covered entities and reporting practitioners to participate in the upcoming sessions, noting that early capability-building can ease compliance, improve disclosure quality and strengthen market confidence in sustainability-related information. /dda
