By Klaken Team 
As the crypto space continues to evolve globally, the Philippines stands out for its relatively progressive stance toward digital assets. But for Filipino users, traders, and businesses, understanding the rules isn’t optional — it’s essential. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about crypto regulations in the Philippines in 2025.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is the main regulatory body overseeing crypto activity in the country. It classifies cryptocurrencies as “virtual assets” and requires businesses offering crypto-related services — such as exchanges, wallets, and remittance platforms — to register as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs).
Registered VASPs must comply with:
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know-Your-Customer (KYC) regulations
- Regular audits and compliance reporting
- Transaction monitoring and security protocols
Some popular platforms like Coins.ph, PDAX, and BloomX are licensed VASPs, offering users legal and safer ways to access the crypto economy.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) takes the lead when crypto assets are considered securities — particularly in cases involving token sales, staking platforms, or DeFi investment schemes.
If a crypto token or project offers returns that resemble investment contracts, the SEC may require it to:
- Register as a security
- Disclose full financial and risk information
- Operate under stricter guidelines to protect investors
This is especially relevant for ICOs, NFTs used for fundraising, and high-yield crypto products.
Yes. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) considers crypto earnings as part of taxable income. This includes:
- Trading gains
- Staking rewards
- Crypto received for services or work
- Income from NFT sales or P2E games
While the government hasn’t released a crypto-specific tax framework yet, general income tax and capital gains rules apply. Keeping clear records of your transactions is a must.
Legal:
- Buying, selling, and trading crypto through licensed exchanges
- Using crypto for remittances or personal payments
- Holding crypto as a digital asset
Risky or Unregulated:
- Using unlicensed foreign exchanges
- Joining high-return “investment” platforms with no SEC registration
- Gambling or betting with crypto via offshore services
Crypto in the Philippines isn’t illegal — but it is regulated. The government aims to protect users while fostering innovation. As the space matures, staying informed is your best defense against scams and legal trouble. Whether you’re a trader, investor, or simply curious, understanding the regulatory landscape will help you navigate crypto with confidence.