BSP Launches Smarter, Cleaner Polymer Banknotes

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) officially launched the “First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series” at Malacañang yesterday.

The series includes polymer versions of the 1,000-piso denomination, which was introduced earlier, and new 500-, 100-, and 50-piso notes. These banknotes are designed to be smarter, cleaner, and stronger than paper currency.

“The BSP encourages everyone to get to know the new banknote series—including consumers, cash handlers in banks and other financial institutions, retail stores, public transport operators, and other businesses involved in financial transactions,” said BSP Assistant Governor Mary Anne P. Lim during a press conference.

The polymer notes feature advanced security features, greater durability, and environmental benefits. According to the BSP, these notes have a smaller carbon footprint, are more hygienic due to reduced virus and bacteria survival times, and last longer than traditional paper notes.

Each denomination showcases unique cultural and environmental symbols. The 1,000-piso note highlights the Philippine eagle and sampaguita flower, while the 500-piso features the Visayan spotted deer and Acanthephippium mantinianum orchid.

Other denominations follow suit, with the 100-piso showcasing the Palawan peacock-pheasant and Ceratocentron fesselii orchid, and the 50-piso highlighting the Visayan leopard cat and Vidal’s lanutan tree. The notes also include elements like Tubbataha Reefs, Mayon Volcano, and Batangas embroidery.

“These banknotes reflect our country’s natural beauty, heritage, and artistry,” Lim said. “We have released communication materials through our website and social media accounts so the public can familiarize themselves with their features.”

The polymer notes match the size and color of their paper equivalents, ensuring they are easy to recognize. They also include tactile dots on the top long edge to assist the elderly and visually impaired.

Meanwhile, the BSP clarified that existing paper banknotes featuring Filipino heroes will remain in circulation alongside the polymer series. This dual use reflects the country’s “numismatic dynamism” and the effort to celebrate both natural and historical symbols of Filipino identity.

The polymer banknotes emphasize both the need for modern security features and the promotion of national pride through biodiversity and culture.