MANILA — The Insurance Commission (IC) has released a new set of omnibus guidelines governing investments for insurers, reinsurers, and mutual benefit associations (MBAs), aiming to enhance the adaptability of regulated entities to the evolving investment landscape.
In a statement issued Thursday, the IC announced the release of Circular Letter (CL) No. 2025-09, dated April 8. The updated guidelines introduce a range of new allowable investments for Insurance Commission Regulated Entities (ICREs), including structured products, debt securities issued by supranational organizations, and various investment vehicles.
Under the new circular, these investment options do not require prior approval from the IC, provided that they meet specific regulatory criteria designed to ensure prudent risk management and the optimization of returns. The guidelines stipulate that each investment must meet minimum credit rating requirements or be listed on recognized exchanges to be eligible.
Insurance Commissioner Reynaldo Regalado explained that the new guidelines are intended to provide ICREs with greater flexibility in responding to dynamic market conditions while ensuring the continued growth and stability of their financial assets. “The new Circular Letter aims to empower our regulated entities to make informed investment decisions that support the stability and growth of their portfolios, all while safeguarding the interests of their policyholders,” Regalado said.
The latest guidelines consolidate 15 previous circulars on allowable investments, streamlining and updating the regulatory framework. These updates supersede, supplement, or reference earlier issuances to create a more efficient and cohesive set of rules for ICREs.
Additionally, the new circular lifts the prior approval requirement for certain Philippine peso and foreign currency-denominated investments, provided these meet accepted market standards, undergo external reviews, and are subject to scrutiny such as credit ratings and listings on recognized exchanges.
Regalado emphasized that these changes are designed to eliminate bottlenecks that have previously delayed investment decisions and strained regulatory resources. “By issuing these new Omnibus Guidelines, we aim to facilitate more timely and efficient investment decisions,” he added. (PNA)
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