The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has removed the Philippines from its ‘gray list’ of countries under increased monitoring for money laundering and terrorist financing, nearly four years after its inclusion. The FATF said the country had successfully addressed strategic deficiencies by tightening oversight of non-financial businesses, casinos, and money transfer operators, improving beneficial ownership transparency, and enforcing stricter cross-border measures. The move is expected to enhance the Philippines’ investment appeal by reducing compliance barriers for financial transactions. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the exit from the list would boost foreign investment and facilitate smoother cross-border transactions for overseas Filipinos. The government pledged continued compliance with global financial standards to maintain its improved standing.