Daily Archives

Presidential and NACC Recognition Ceremony Honors PICPA and Other Champions of the Philippines’ FATF Grey List Exit

On May 5, 2025, at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacañan Palace, the Office of the President, through the National Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Terrorism Financing/Counter-Proliferation Financing Coordinating Committee (NACC), held the Presidential and NACC Recognition Ceremony: Honoring the Champions of the Philippines’ FATF Grey List Exit. This momentous event recognized the collective efforts and vital contributions of both government and private sector entities that led to the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List.

The Philippines was placed on the Grey List in June 2021 due to strategic deficiencies in addressing illicit financial activities. This designation negatively impacted the country’s global financial reputation and posed challenges to cross-border transactions and investments.

In January 2025, representatives from the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) participated in the Asia Pacific Joint Group (APJG) Onsite Visit held at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) headquarters in Makati City. The APJG’s evaluation confirmed the Philippines’ sustained implementation of key reforms. This favorable assessment led to the FATF’s decision on February 21, 2025, to remove the Philippines from the Grey List, ending nearly four years of heightened monitoring.

During the ceremony, PICPA was awarded a Plaque of Recognition for its invaluable contributions, unwavering commitment, and exceptional dedication to advancing the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) agenda. The Institute’s support of crucial reforms played a significant role in achieving the milestone Grey List exit.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally addressed all awardees in his congratulatory remarks, expressing deep appreciation for their efforts. Inspirational messages were also delivered by Executive Secretary and NACC Chairperson Ret. Chief Justice Lucas P. Bersamin, and NACC Vice Chairperson Dr. Eli M. Remolona Jr., Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and Chairman of the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). The ceremony was attended by representatives from 29 government agencies and 233 private sector entities.

PICPA was proudly represented by National Executive Director Anna Lissa C. Chua-Dycaico and MMR Executive Director Mark Benedict Guia.

PICPA remains committed to supporting the AMLC and NACC in sustaining a resilient and globally trusted financial system—one that upholds the integrity of the country’s financial landscape and strengthens the nation’s capacity to combat financial crimes and promote economic stability.