SEC cites critical role of credible data and transparency in sustainable finance
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) emphasized that credible data and transparency are critical in driving sustainable finance and advancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) outcomes.
During the CRIF Forum 2025, SEC Commissioner Javey Paul D. Francisco challenged businesses and financial institutions to move beyond surface-level sustainability efforts and embed data-driven strategies into their core operations.
The forum convened over 180 leaders from the public and private sectors, including representatives from finance, technology, and regulatory agencies, to explore the intersection of sustainability, digital transformation, and risk resilience in today’s evolving business landscape.
“Sustainability is no longer a future problem; it’s a present-day operational and financial risk. Climate change, supply chain disruption, and social accountability are now material issues. We cannot manage what we do not measure,” Francisco said.
He emphasized that verifiable ESG data now serves as a prerequisite for credibility in the market. From energy use and emissions tracking to labor practices and governance structures, reliable sustainability disclosures are increasingly seen by investors and lenders as essential indicators of risk management, resilience, and business ethics.
Francisco also pointed to the Commission’s ongoing efforts to enable this shift through regulatory frameworks and support initiatives.
These include sustainability reporting guidelines for publicly listed companies, alignment with global standards like the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) sustainability disclosure standards, and nationwide programs that support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in building ESG capabilities.
He called for a whole-of-ecosystem approach, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between regulators, industry players, and financial institutions to make sustainability practical, measurable, and inclusive.
The CRIF Forum 2025 continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue and action across sectors, showcasing how data, technology, and regulation can jointly support the transition to a more resilient, equitable, and future-ready economy.