SEC, IBP seal partnership to strengthen public education against investment scams
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), through its Tarlac Extension Office, and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) under the SEC Communication, Advocacy and Network (SEC CAN!) initiative during the 2026 IBP Central Luzon Regional Convention held on June 26 at Widus Hotel, Clark Freeport Zone.
The agreement signifies the commitment of the SEC and the IBP to work together in promoting legal awareness, investor protection, corporate good governance, and financial literacy through joint information, education, and advocacy initiatives.
Under the partnership, both institutions will collaborate in conducting seminars, trainings, and other public education activities aimed at increasing awareness of corporate and securities laws, promoting responsible investing, and protecting the public against fraudulent investment schemes. The initiative also seeks to encourage greater public understanding of the Philippine capital market and support the SEC’s continuing investor education and capital market development programs.
The agreement was signed by Atty. Richard R. Laus, Director of SEC Tarlac and Atty. Allan G. Panolong, IBP National President. The signing was witnessed by Atty. Randall C. Tabayoyong, IBP Executive Vice President and Governor of the IBP Bicolandia Region; Atty. Dick F. Fernandez, Governor of the IBP Central Luzon Region; and Atty. Charito P. Bañez-Santiago, Securities Counsel II of SEC Tarlac.
During the signing ceremony, Atty. Laus underscored the significance of the partnership in advancing the shared mission of both institutions.
“This partnership between the SEC and the IBP reflects our shared commitment to empowering the public through legal awareness, investor education, and good governance. By working together, we can strengthen public trust, protect investors from fraudulent schemes, and help build a more informed and financially resilient Filipino community,” Atty. Laus said.
Meanwhile, IBP National President Atty. Allan G. Panolong, in his message, emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships that promote legal awareness, responsible governance, and greater access to justice. He likewise highlighted the vital role of the legal profession in supporting initiatives that protect the public, uphold the rule of law, and foster meaningful collaboration between the IBP and government agencies in advancing public service.
The MOA signing formed part of the 2026 IBP Central Luzon Regional Convention, which brought together members of the legal profession, government agencies, and stakeholders to discuss initiatives that strengthen public service, uphold the rule of law, and promote good governance.
The partnership between the SEC and the IBP underscores the importance of interagency collaboration in advancing public education and strengthening investor protection. By combining their respective expertise and resources, both institutions aim to empower the public with the knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions, recognize and avoid investment scams, and contribute to a more transparent, resilient, and inclusive capital market.
###