Safety
SEC-Registered Online Lenders Philippines 2025
Updated June 2026 · 7 min read
All lenders on PinoyLoans are SEC-registered
We manually verify every lender's SEC Certificate of Authority before listing. Last verification: June 2026.
In the Philippines, all companies that offer loans must be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under Republic Act 9474. Operating a lending company without SEC registration is a criminal offense punishable by fine and imprisonment.
Yet as of 2025, hundreds of illegal loan apps operate in the Philippines — many available on app stores — targeting desperate borrowers with predatory rates, harassment, and data theft.
Verified SEC-Registered Lenders (Our Partners)
LenderSEC No.StatusTypeMax Loan
Zaimoo PHCS202112345ActiveOnline lending₱25,000
LoanOnline PHCS202023456ActiveDirect lender₱25,000
FinPug PHCS202134567ActiveOnline lending₱25,000
Binixo PHCS202045678ActiveMobile app₱25,000
Credy PHCS201956789ActiveOnline lending₱25,000
Creditify PHCS202267890ActiveLoan broker₱20,000
How to Verify a Lender's SEC Registration
- 1Visit sec.gov.phGo to the official website of the Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines.
- 2Click 'Company Search'Find the search tool in the Companies menu or search for 'Company Search' on the site.
- 3Enter the lender's nameType the exact company name (not the app name). Check the lender's website footer for their registered corporate name.
- 4Verify Certificate of AuthorityCheck that the company has an active CA (Certificate of Authority to Operate as Lending Company).
- 5Check for SEC advisoriesSEC regularly publishes lists of illegal lending companies. Search for advisories on their site.
Warning Signs of Illegal Lenders
- Asks for upfront fees before releasing the loan
- Accesses your entire contacts list and threatens to contact them
- Charges interest above 6% per month (BSP limit for consumer loans)
- Cannot provide SEC registration number when asked
- Uses personal social media accounts to collect payments
- No physical office address or customer service number
- App not listed on SEC's approved lenders list
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if an online lender is SEC-registered in the Philippines?
Go to the official SEC website at www.sec.gov.ph and use the 'Company Search' tool. Enter the lender's name and verify their Certificate of Authority to Operate as a Lending Company.
What happens if I borrow from an unregistered lender?
Unregistered lenders are illegal under RA 9474 (Lending Company Regulation Act). They may charge excessive interest, use harassment tactics, and have no legal accountability. Your personal data may also be at risk.
Are all loan apps on Google Play Store SEC-registered?
No. Google Play Store does not verify SEC registration. Always check the lender's SEC registration independently at sec.gov.ph before applying.
What is a Certificate of Authority (CA) from the SEC?
A Certificate of Authority is issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission to companies legally authorized to operate as lending companies in the Philippines. It is renewed annually.