SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Philippines - In a significant step to enhance financial literacy and prevent investment fraud, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has joined forces with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Antique Chapter. The collaboration aims to educate investors and promote awareness through various initiatives and programs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cristina Montelibano, the partnership is crucial for expanding outreach and enhancing the effectiveness of the commission's mandate. The initiative seeks to connect various sectors, fostering a collaborative environment essential for advancing financial literacy and investor protection.
The agreement, signed by Montelibano, PCCI Antique Chapter President Rani Rodriguez, and Vice President Aben Ortega, outlines a framework for continuous dialogue and joint efforts in financial education. The parties committed to designing and implementing programs that will inform the public about sound financial practices and the risks of investment scams.
Through the SEC Capital Market Promotion and Awareness Inter-Agency Network (SEC CAMPAIGN Network), the collaboration will feature activities focused on empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge to make informed financial decisions and recognize fraudulent schemes. Montelibano emphasized the proactive nature of this initiative, aimed at preempting investment scams in Antique, which currently has no reported cases.
Rodriguez highlighted the PCCI's role in guiding local businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), on formalizing their operations through SEC registration. This process not only legitimizes businesses but also facilitates access to financial services, including loans for growth and expansion.
To further support the Antique business community and individual investors, the SEC plans to establish a local station or satellite office, eliminating the need for stakeholders to travel to Iloilo City for SEC-related transactions. This move is expected to enhance the accessibility of SEC services and reinforce the agency's commitment to investor education and protection in the region.