IC issues new investment guidelines for insurers

The Insurance Commission (IC) has issued Circular Letter No. 2025-09 to provide new guidelines on investments for insurers, reinsurers, and mutual benefit associations.

These new omnibus guidelines consolidate and supersede previous related issuances, streamlining the investment framework for these firms while enhancing their adaptability in a dynamic market environment.

Under the new guidelines, ICREs can now invest in structured products like credit-, bond- or equity-linked notes, debt securities issued by supranational organizations, and various investment vehicles without prior IC approval, provided they meet minimum credit rating requirements or are listed on recognized exchanges.

Insurance Commissioner Reynaldo Regalado emphasized that the aim is to empower regulated entities to make well-informed investment decisions while ensuring policyholder interests are safeguarded.

The guidelines also include regular reviews by the IC to ensure compliance and may implement regulatory measures if an ICRE fails to maintain adequate risk management systems.