Why polymer banknotes?

• 1. Polymer banknotes are smarter.
  • More secure. Detailed images and sophisticated security features make polymer banknotes more difficult to counterfeit.
  • More eco-friendly. Don’t panic just because it’s plastic. Producing polymer banknotes has less environmental impact given their smaller carbon footprint, lower water and energy usage, and less environmental toxicity.
  • Recyclable. Go green with polymer banknotes. When deemed unfit, these banknotes can be recycled to produce various products such as building components, plant pots, and garden furniture. 
• 2. Polymer banknotes are cleaner.
  • Shorter survivability of viruses and bacteria. The smoother, non-absorptive surface of polymer banknotes makes them cleaner. Based on studies reviewed by our Department of Health, the survival time of bacteria and viruses in polymer banknotes is significantly shorter than in paper banknotes.
  • Can be sanitized. You can always keep your polymer banknotes clean. You can sanitize them with less risk of damage compared to paper banknotes.
• 3. Polymer banknotes are stronger.
  • More durable. Rain or shine, your polymer banknotes can withstand the test of temperature and time. They can last much longer than paper banknotes given their resistance to water, oil, dirt, and general wear and tear.
  • More cost-effective. With a lifespan that is at least 2 to 5 times longer than paper banknotes, polymer banknotes will lead to significant savings on printing, distribution, and replacement costs in the long run.
• 4. Polymer banknotes have a distinct and functional design.
  
  • Its distinct design and texture make the new polymer banknote easily distinguishable from paper banknotes. It also features the country’s national flora and fauna symbols: the Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), the Sampaguita flower (Jasminum sambac), along with the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and our nature’s pride, the South Sea Pearl.
  • More inclusive. The new polymer banknote also has five embossed dots as a tactile feature for the visually challenged.
• 5. A change for the better.
  
  • Central banks around the world change the designs of their banknotes every 10 years, on average, and the current series of Philippine banknotes first went into circulation more than ten years ago.
  • We will now join Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Mexico, Fiji, and Vietnam as polymer banknote users. These countries have experienced a big reduction in counterfeiting cases after shifting to polymer banknotes, among other benefits.

Timeline

Road to 500 million pieces of 1000-Piso polymer banknotes in circulation

Design Features

The distinct design and enhanced security features of the 1000-Piso polymer banknote are consistent with the principles of currency integrity, social relevance and efficiency, and unified theme and aesthetics.

Key Security Features

Polymer Substrate

                                                                         

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Enhanced Value Panel

                                                                         

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Sampaguita Clear Window

                                                                         

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Serial Numbers

                                                                         

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Tactile Dots

                                                                         

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Embossed Prints (Obverse)

                                                                         

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Embossed Prints (Reverse)

                                                                         

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Shadow Thread

                                                                         

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Vertical Clear Window

                                                                         

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Metallic Features (Dynamic Waves)

                                                                         

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Metallic Features (RP Seal and Mirrored Denomination)

                                                                         

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Metallic Features (BSP Logo and 3D Denomination)

                                                                         

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Blue Iridescent Figure

                                                                         

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Flying Eagle

                                                                          

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Proper Handling

Polymer banknotes may be tough, but these banknotes also need to be valued and handled with care. Just like our existing paper banknotes, the new 1000-Piso polymer banknote should be properly used so it can last for a longer period of time. Here are the DOs and DON’Ts in handling polymer banknotes:

KEEP THEM FLAT.
Place your polymer banknotes in wallets where they fit properly. If banknotes become crumpled or creased, apply pressure, or flatten them with your hands.

KEEP THEM CLEAN.
Soiled or dirty polymer banknotes may be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Their surface may also be cleaned with alcohol-based sanitizers—just wipe them dry using a towel or piece of cloth right away.

USE THEM AS PAYMENT FOR GOODS AND SERVICES.
Do not hoard polymer banknotes, nor buy or sell them at a higher price.

DO NOT deface, write on, or mark polymer banknotes.

DO NOT excessively fold, crease, or crumple polymer banknotes. These could leave permanent fold marks

DO NOT tear, cut, or poke holes in polymer banknotes.

                   
DO NOT staple polymer banknotes or use rubber bands to keep them together.
You may use paper bands instead.

DO NOT damage the clear windows, metallic features, and other security features of polymer banknotes.

DO NOT iron polymer banknotes.

DO NOT expose polymer banknotes to very high temperatures or place them near an open flame.

DO NOT expose polymer banknotes to strong or corrosive chemicals, such as muriatic acid or bleach.

Resources

Sharing is caring! Learn more about the P1000-Piso polymer banknote by reading these free-to-download materials.

Benefits Infosheet (English)

                                                      

Benefits Infosheet (Filipino)

                                                      

FAQs (English)

                                                      

FAQs (Filipino)

                                                      

Proper Handling Guidelines (English)

                                                      

Security Features Infosheet (English)