ASC Circular 2026-012–Revised Policy on Music Requirment

In line with the ASC’s continuing thrust to promote ease of doing business and streamline the advertising review process, the ASC Board has approved a revision to the policy governing music license requirements for ASC applications.

Effective immediately, the ASC shall no longer require the submission of music licenses as part of the documentary requirements for ASC applications.

Accordingly, the ASC shall refrain from screening music solely for purposes of copyright or licensing compliance during the pre-screening process.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the ASC shall continue to review and evaluate music used in advertisements should the music contain claims that are subject to ASC screening guidelines and if the material is applied with the ASC. This includes but are not limited to:

• No. 1 or leadership claims;

• Absolute claims;

• Comparative claims;

• Exclusivity; and

• Superiority claims

Following this, monitoring and enforcement of music-related compliance shall therefore shift from a pre-screening requirement to a post-screening monitoring mechanism, without prejudice to any action that may be warranted under applicable ASC rules and regulations or laws of the land.

This Circular repeals, cancels, and supersedes ASC Circular No. 2024-008 and all other issuances inconsistent herewith.

Please be guided accordingly.