The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has launched a new satellite office in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, aiming to expedite transactions for clients in the region and nearby Siquijor. The announcement was made during a press conference on January 22, 2025, attended by key figures including Edward Du, president of the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SEC Bacolod Extension Office Director III Annabelle Corral-Respall, and SEC information officer Ma. Laarni King.
Director Corral-Respall explained that the establishment of the office is part of the SEC’s strategy to improve service delivery, especially after the formation of the Negros Island Region in 2023. To support the new office, the SEC has created a position for a Certified Public Accountant to manage technical applications and provide administrative support. However, due to limited resources, CPA-lawyer Leo Futalan Salvador from Siaton, Negros Oriental, will act as the officer-in-charge, available on Thursdays and Fridays.
Corral-Respall also highlighted the SEC’s ongoing digitalization efforts, pointing out that most services are now available online. The SEC has also formed partnerships with local entities such as Foundation University, the municipality of Valencia, and the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI).
Edward Du, NOCCI’s president, expressed his support for the new SEC office, noting its significant convenience for business clients. He proudly mentioned that NOCCI is unique in the country for hosting an SEC office, which promises quicker transaction times.
In a move to further improve regional services, the SEC recently entered into an agreement with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).