The Step-by-Step Playbook to Avoid Penalties, Delays, and Audit Flags

You’ve secured your business license. You’re operational. But if you haven’t completed your AMLC registration, you’re not fully compliant, and that gap can shut down your business faster than any competitor.

Most covered businesses in the Philippines—such as pawnshops, banks, lending firms, insurance providers, and real estate brokers—assume that their BSP, SEC, or IC license is sufficient. It’s not. AMLC registration is a separate and mandatory process under the Anti-Money Laundering Act. Failing to comply invites audits, penalties, or worse—investigations that can freeze your operations.

Want the checklist, forms, and templates in one file?
Download the AMLC Compliance Toolkit »
Access requires filling out a quick form.

What Is AMLC Registration—and Why It’s Not Optional

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) is responsible for monitoring high-risk businesses to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Through its registration system, it tracks “covered persons” such as:

• Pawnshops
• Banks (including digital and rural)
• Lending and financing firms
• Insurance companies
• Real estate brokers and developers

If you handle large cash transactions or valuable assets, you’re on the list. Skipping AMLC registration doesn’t just increase your risk—it guarantees non-compliance.

AMLC Registration in 6 Simple Steps

You don’t need to hire a consultant to register. Most businesses follow these core steps:

1. Go to https://portal.amlc.gov.ph
2. Create an account and submit business details
3. Upload documents, including officer designations and AMLA seminar proofs
4. Verify your email
5. Receive your provisional certificate (PCOR)
6. Get your final certificate (COR) once approved

Submissions after 1:00 PM are processed the next business day.

Why Your Industry Is on the Radar

Even if you believe your business is “low risk,” regulators don’t. AMLC pays close attention to:

• Pawnshops – high cash volume
• Lending firms – mobile onboarding vulnerabilities
• Real estate brokers – property transactions for layering
• Insurance companies – policy-based laundering
• Banks – multi-party transactions and account layering

These sectors face heightened scrutiny, and failing to register signals a lack of due diligence.

Registration Is Only the Start

Completing AMLC registration doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Your business must:

• Conduct customer due diligence
• Submit Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs)
• Keep proper records
• Train your appointed officers
• Monitor clients regularly

Download our free AMLC Toolkit, which includes checklists and templates for each requirement.
Download the Toolkit Now »
(Access requires filling out a quick form.)

A Tool That Makes It Easier

UNAWA’s UCheck helps you automate AML compliance through name screening, PEP checks, and digital risk profiling. It’s endorsed by the Chamber of Pawnbrokers of the Philippines, Inc. (CPPI) and trusted by financial and real estate professionals.

When paired with the proper process, UCheck keeps you ready for any audit, without wasting hours on spreadsheets or manual logs.

Don’t Wait for a Letter from the AMLC

If your business is not yet registered, now is the time to act.
If you are, but your system is still manual—you’re vulnerable.
If you’re unsure—this toolkit was made for you.

Download the AMLC Compliance Toolkit »
Includes checklists, officer templates, and a risk scoring sheet. Unlock access by filling out the form.