Meta Description: The SEC’s new Green Equity Guidelines make the Philippines the first in ASEAN to issue standards for sustainable finance. Learn what they mean for companies, investors, and ESG reporting in 2025.

Published October 8, 2025

A Landmark Development in Sustainable Finance

In early 2025, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) released the Green Equity Guidelines, a first of its kind in ASEAN. These rules provide a framework for how companies and investors can engage in green financing and ensure that capital is directed toward projects that truly contribute to sustainable development, climate action, and net zero transitions.

This move signals the Philippines’ determination to align with global ESG standards while strengthening its financial markets for the long term.

What the Guidelines Require

The Green Equity Guidelines apply to equity issuances marketed as “green” or sustainable. At their core, the rules ensure that companies seeking green financing:

• Clearly define how proceeds will be used for green projects (e.g., renewable energy, clean transportation, sustainable agriculture)
• Disclose governance structures to oversee these funds, tying sustainability directly into corporate governance
• Align reporting with globally recognized sustainability frameworks such as IFRS S1 & S2, GRI, and TCFD
• Commit to transparency by publishing sustainability reports that track use of proceeds and project impacts.

   

Need help aligning your reporting with these standards?
Learn more about our Sustainability expertise

Why This Matters for Philippine Companies

For businesses and investors, the guidelines unlock a powerful opportunity:

• Access to capital – Companies with credible sustainability reporting can now attract green equity investments from both local and global investors
• Enhanced credibility – Transparent reporting reduces the risk of greenwashing, building investor trust
• Competitive advantage – Early movers will position themselves as leaders in sustainable finance, gaining stronger brand and market value

This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about strategic positioning in the global ESG landscape.

Linking ESG Reporting to Green Financing

The SEC’s Green Equity Guidelines underline a critical truth: strong ESG reporting is the gateway to sustainable finance.

Companies must now demonstrate that their sustainability reports go beyond PR statements to provide:

• Measurable, investor-grade ESG disclosures
• Clear governance mechanisms
• Long-term strategies for climate action and net zero transitions

Strengthen governance and risk management for sustainable finance readiness.
Explore our Resiliency solutions  

The Consultant Advantage in Green Finance

Many companies may be new to sustainable finance. This is where a sustainability consultant like GCSS, Inc. becomes crucial:

• Mapping projects to eligible green categories
• Ensuring reports meet IFRS, TCFD, and SEC requirements
• Building investor confidence with assured data and transparent governance structures
• Positioning companies to not just comply, but compete for global green investments

Don’t risk missing out on financing opportunities.
Book a strategy call with GCSS, Inc. to prepare your business for green equity investments.

Lead the Way in Sustainable Finance

The SEC’s Green Equity Guidelines are more than just new rules—they are a gateway to green capital for companies ready to align with sustainability and ESG best practices. Those who prepare now will gain a competitive advantage in attracting investors and proving long-term resilience.

GCSS, Inc. helps Philippine businesses translate ESG reporting into sustainable finance opportunities.

Reach out at sales@gcssinc.com to begin your IFRS- and TCFD-aligned ESG journey. Book your discovery call here and talk to our experts today.

Follow GCSS, Inc. on LinkedIn and Facebook for the latest ESG trends, reporting best practices, and sustainability insights.

Subscribe to our newsletter for expert insights, practical frameworks, and trend analyses delivered weekly. For business leaders and executives, join the discussion and conversation here.