The Securities and Exchange Commission has released its updated 2026 Rules of Procedure, introducing major changes aimed at speeding up case resolution and making its decision-making process clearer and more predictable for businesses, investors and other stakeholders.
The new rules replace the 2016 edition and are designed to simplify administrative and adjudicative procedures, reduce delays and ensure faster, more consistent decisions.
SEC chairman Francis E. Lim said the revised rules strengthen the agency’s systems by removing unnecessary steps and clarifying processes, while still upholding due process. He added that the changes will help the Commission carry out its expanded powers more efficiently as the country’s corporate regulator and investor advocate.
Under the 2026 rules, parties may now submit draft decisions to help facilitate faster case resolution.
To cut delays, motions for reconsideration of decisions made by operating departments and extension offices will no longer be allowed. Instead, parties who wish to challenge a department-level ruling must file a direct appeal to the SEC en banc, composed of all commissioners.
The rules also prohibit motions for extension of time and motions to declare default. If a party fails to respond within the prescribed period, the case will automatically move forward for decision.
Before a final ruling is issued, the responsible office may call a conference after an answer has been filed. During this meeting, parties may discuss possible settlement, agree on facts, set hearing dates and address other matters to ensure a fair and speedy resolution.
As part of its streamlining efforts, the SEC will now use email as the primary mode of serving and filing documents. Initial pleadings may still be filed via registered mail, accredited courier or email, but all subsequent submissions must generally be filed online.
SEC issuances will also be sent electronically to the registered email address provided by corporations under existing SEC regulations.
For corporations, the updated rules mean stricter timelines and fewer opportunities for delay, requiring faster responses and closer attention to electronic communications.
For investors and the public, the changes aim to deliver quicker resolutions of disputes and enforcement cases, promoting greater regulatory certainty and confidence in the market.
Overall, the 2026 Rules of Procedure are expected to make the SEC’s processes more efficient, transparent and consistent, while maintaining fairness in its decisions.
