Introducing the First Philippine Polymer Banknotes: Smarter, Cleaner, and Stronger Currency
Philippines Unveils new Polymer Banknotes Featuring Native Species
Manila, Philippines – Get ready for a new look and feel for your Philippine pesos. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has unveiled a new series of polymer banknotes, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
The First Philippine Polymer Banknote (FPP) Series, launched on Thursday at Malacañang Palace, includes denominations of P500, P100, and P50. These banknotes join the P1,000 polymer banknote, which was introduced in 2022 and features the majestic Philippine eagle.
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“Polymer banknotes are smarter,cleaner,and stronger,” said BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, highlighting the benefits of the new currency. “They have advanced anti-counterfeiting features and a smaller carbon footprint. Viruses and bacteria don’t survive as long on polymer as on paper,and they last longer then thier paper counterparts.”
The new banknotes feature stunning images of native and protected species alongside intricate local weave designs. The P500 banknote showcases the Visayan spotted deer, the P100 boasts the Palawan peacock-pheasant, and the P50 features the Visayan leopard cat.
While the new polymer banknotes are set to enter full circulation in the first quarter of 2025, Filipinos in the Greater Manila Area can get a sneak peek starting December 23rd, with limited quantities available.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reassured the public that existing paper banknotes will remain legal tender. “Our paper banknotes will continue to circulate and will remain valid,” he emphasized. “There is no need to worry. The polymer banknotes are simply a step forward—stronger, more durable, better suited for today’s demands, while still preserving the essence of what makes our currency truly Filipino.”
The P1,000 polymer banknote, despite facing some initial criticism, has already garnered international recognition, winning the prestigious “Banknote of the Year” award from the International Banknote Society in 2023.
However, the BSP clarified that the P200 and P20 denominations will not be included in the polymer series. The P20 banknote is being phased out through natural attrition, while the P200 banknote, which has seen low usage as its launch in 2010, will remain legal tender until it becomes unfit for circulation.
Philippine Peso Gets a Colorful Makeover with New Polymer Banknotes
Manila, Philippines – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has joined the ranks of nations embracing durable and eco-friendly polymer banknotes. The First Philippine polymer Banknote (FPP) Series, launched on Thursday, features stunning designs of native species and intricate local weaves.
A Greener, More Secure Peso
“Polymer banknotes are smarter, cleaner, and stronger,” BSP Governor eli M. Remolona emphasized. He highlighted the numerous advantages of polymer, including advanced anti-counterfeiting features, a smaller carbon footprint, and increased lifespan compared to paper banknotes.
Biodiversity Takes Center Stage
The P500 banknote showcases the Visayan spotted deer, the P100 flaunts the Palawan peacock-pheasant, and the P50 features the Visayan leopard cat. These majestic creatures symbolize the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and serve as a reminder of the country’s commitment to conservation.
Limited Release and Steady Circulation
Filipinos in the Greater Manila Area will get a first glimpse of the new banknotes starting December 23rd, with limited quantities available. Full circulation across the Philippines is slated for the first quarter of 2025. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. assured the public that existing paper banknotes will remain legal tender.
Award-Winning Innovation
The P1,000 polymer banknote, introduced in 2022, has already made waves internationally, winning the prestigious “Banknote of the Year” award from the International Banknote Society.
P20 and P200: Their Fates Decided
While the new polymer series will not include the P200 and P20 denominations, the BSP clarified that the P200 will remain legal tender until unfit for circulation.The P20 banknote, on the other hand, is being gradually phased out.