The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced that all publicly listed companies will be required to submit mandatory sustainability reports starting in 2026. This marks a major policy shift from the existing “comply or explain” guideline introduced in 2019. The new rules aim to bring the Philippines in line with global reporting standards such as those of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). The rollout will occur in stages—beginning with large corporations in 2026, mid-sized firms in 2027, and smaller companies by 2028. To ensure a smooth transition, the SEC is conducting a market readiness study and creating a digital platform, the Sustainability Reporting (SuRe) Framework Application, to support efficient submissions and oversight.
This initiative reflects the country’s broader commitment to improving corporate responsibility in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas. By enforcing standardized sustainability disclosures, the SEC seeks to attract responsible investment, increase business transparency, and promote climate-conscious governance. Environmental advocates have praised the decision, seeing it as a much-needed step toward holding corporations accountable for their ecological impact. The move also helps position Philippine businesses as more attractive and credible players in the global economy, where ESG performance is becoming a key factor in investor and consumer decisions. More