Manila Times
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Sunday, Jul 13, 2025
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Francis Lim Takes Helm as New Chair of the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
Aiming to Reform and Enhance the Philippine Capital Market
MANILA, Philippines — Francis Lim has officially commenced his role as chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) following a turnover ceremony at the agency's headquarters in Makati.
Lim, who succeeds Emilio Aquino after a seven-year tenure, has expressed his commitment to enhancing the Philippine capital market while continuing the initiatives set by his predecessor.
During the ceremony, Aquino endorsed Lim, describing him as a capable leader with a strong track record.
Lim highlighted the need for a more inclusive capital market, stating, "Let’s be honest: the Philippine capital market has been lagging behind.
Inclusive growth demands deeper, broader and more accessible capital markets.
We will leave no stone unturned to catch up."
Lim outlined his intent to collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including the Philippine Stock Exchange and governmental bodies, to implement meaningful reforms.
He identified the biggest challenge as attracting investors to the Philippine equities market, emphasizing the importance of corporate governance in building trust among potential investors.
Rather than suggesting numerous new reforms, Lim advocated for the effective execution of existing policies, asserting that "it’s more execution and implementation than more reforms." He plans to refine and scale effective practices with a sense of urgency and discipline.
One of Lim’s primary objectives will be to expedite the resolution of pending applications within the commission, adhering to legally defined timelines: "If this means working nights, weekends, or holidays, then that is what public service demands."
Furthermore, Lim aims to simplify processes and regulatory requirements for the public, indicating a commitment to the efficient and justified handling of requests.
He also suggested considering fair reductions in fees for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Emphasizing the importance of technology in modernizing the SEC, Lim acknowledged the digital transformation that began under Aquino's leadership in 2021, which aimed to automate key services, including company registration and transaction payments.
This modernization effort has already resulted in record new company registrations, with over 52,600 new businesses registered in 2024 alone.
Lim’s administration is expected to build on these advancements to further enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the Philippine capital market.
Lim, who succeeds Emilio Aquino after a seven-year tenure, has expressed his commitment to enhancing the Philippine capital market while continuing the initiatives set by his predecessor.
During the ceremony, Aquino endorsed Lim, describing him as a capable leader with a strong track record.
Lim highlighted the need for a more inclusive capital market, stating, "Let’s be honest: the Philippine capital market has been lagging behind.
Inclusive growth demands deeper, broader and more accessible capital markets.
We will leave no stone unturned to catch up."
Lim outlined his intent to collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including the Philippine Stock Exchange and governmental bodies, to implement meaningful reforms.
He identified the biggest challenge as attracting investors to the Philippine equities market, emphasizing the importance of corporate governance in building trust among potential investors.
Rather than suggesting numerous new reforms, Lim advocated for the effective execution of existing policies, asserting that "it’s more execution and implementation than more reforms." He plans to refine and scale effective practices with a sense of urgency and discipline.
One of Lim’s primary objectives will be to expedite the resolution of pending applications within the commission, adhering to legally defined timelines: "If this means working nights, weekends, or holidays, then that is what public service demands."
Furthermore, Lim aims to simplify processes and regulatory requirements for the public, indicating a commitment to the efficient and justified handling of requests.
He also suggested considering fair reductions in fees for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Emphasizing the importance of technology in modernizing the SEC, Lim acknowledged the digital transformation that began under Aquino's leadership in 2021, which aimed to automate key services, including company registration and transaction payments.
This modernization effort has already resulted in record new company registrations, with over 52,600 new businesses registered in 2024 alone.
Lim’s administration is expected to build on these advancements to further enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the Philippine capital market.
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