Philippine SEC ready to regulate tokenized real-world assets

The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission has signaled it is prepared to regulate the tokenization of real-world assets, stating that existing laws provide a sufficient foundation for the emerging financial technology. The announcement, made by SEC Commissioner Rogelio Quevedo during Philippine Blockchain Week 2026, positions the country as moving toward practical implementation while framing the technology as a tool for market modernization and investor protection.

Commissioner Quevedo stated that regulators are now fully convinced that the country possesses the proper legal framework and regulatory experience to support asset tokenization. This stance marks a shift from theoretical discussion to a readiness to oversee compliant products. Quevedo emphasized that tokenization could modernize capital markets and potentially revolutionize stock exchanges by making investments more accessible and efficient.

A significant part of the regulator's focus is on protecting overseas Filipino workers, a group frequently targeted by investment scams. Quevedo noted that these workers often have capital but lack knowledge of reliable investment opportunities. He suggested that...