The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is encouraging agri-business companies to tap the capital market for their financing needs through the Commission’s program, which streamlines the process for securities registration in the industry.

The Commission, on Sept. 24, introduced the guidelines for Securing & Expanding Capital for Farms & Agri-business Related Modernization Schemes (SEC FARMS) to industry players in a conference titled, “SEC FARMS: Sowing the Seeds of Growth through the Capital Market.”

Enacted through SEC Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2023, SEC FARMS streamlines the registration process for the securities of agri-businesses, aiming to boost investor participation and drive growth in the industry.

Under SEC FARMS, the Commission is required to review the registration statements of agri-business firms within 28 days from the filing date, subject to the guidelines of the SEC. Through the scheme, agri-businesses may raise up to ₱500 million in funds per project.

“We know that agriculture is the backbone of our economy—it feeds our people and sustains millions of families. Yet farmers and agri-businesses have often been left with little water to grow—the water here being capital or financing,” SEC Chairperson Francis Lim said in his welcome remarks.

He added that, “SEC FARMS is our way of irrigating that field, making sure resources reach those who need them most so you can modernize, expand, and thrive.”

SEC FARMS is in line with the Marcos administration’s “Masaganang Agrikultura, Maunlad na Ekonomiya” program, which focuses on farm clustering and consolidation, modernization, and industrialization to develop the country’s agriculture sector.

The event featured discussions from the SEC Markets and Securities Regulation Department, Company Registration and Monitoring Department, Corporate Governance and Finance Department, Financial Analysis and Audit Department, and Office of the General Accountant on the requirements under SEC FARMS.

Representatives from the Philippine Stock Exchange and Investment & Capital Corporation of the Philippines also delved into the processes for initial public offering listing and engaging with underwriters, respectively.

“Think of SEC FARMS as a new set of farming tools—lighter, sharper, and more efficient. With the right tools, your hard work will yield bigger harvests, not just for your families but for the whole nation,” Lim said.

He noted that, “We are only at the start of this journey, but with your participation, I believe SEC FARMS can make Philippine agriculture more productive, competitive, and sustainable.”