Is Monero legal in the Philippines?
Legal to own, but licensed Philippine VASPs may not list or support XMR.
| Owning XMR | Legal |
|---|---|
| Local exchanges | Not allowed |
| National rule | Exchanges barred from privacy coins |
| Regulator | Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP); Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) |
| Last reviewed | 25 October 2026 |
The legal situation in the Philippines
In June 2026 the central bank issued listing rules barring licensed virtual asset service providers from listing or supporting 'anonymity-enhancing' (privacy) VAs, naming Monero and Zcash. The SEC separately registers crypto-asset service providers under 2025 rules. No restriction on private holding was reported.
Key facts
- 2025-06: The SEC issued its crypto-asset service provider rules (Memorandum Circular No. 5).
- 2026-06: BSP memorandum M-2026-023 (reported 15 Jun 2026) bars licensed VASPs from listing or supporting 'anonymity-enhancing VAs, otherwise known as privacy VAs'.
- VASPs must also adopt ongoing token monitoring and delisting triggers.
What this means for you
Owning Monero in your own wallet is legal, but regulated exchanges here do not list it or are being pushed to drop it. If you hold XMR on an exchange, read what to do when an exchange delists Monero and move it to a wallet you control. Only use buying routes that are legal where you live; see how to buy Monero.
Sources
coinmarketcap.com, decrypt.co.
Sources are listed by publisher so you can look them up yourself; we do not link out.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Monero legal in the Philippines?
Legal to own, but licensed Philippine VASPs may not list or support XMR.
Can I buy Monero on a local exchange in the Philippines?
No. Crypto exchanges or privacy coins are not allowed.