SMARTER, CLEANER, and STRONGER:

The First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series

Images of the Philippine eagle and Visayan leopard cat are from photos taken by Floyd Bermejo
Smarter

The First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series is smarter than paper banknotes, as it has more sophisticated security features, making it harder to counterfeit.

Countries that shifted to polymer banknotes—including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Mexico, Fiji, and Vietnam—saw a decline in counterfeiting cases.

While there are no major counterfeiting problems in the Philippines, crime syndicates continue to adopt new techniques to counterfeit Philippine banknotes, hence the need to continually strengthen the currency’s security features.

A study commissioned by the BSP also revealed that the 1000-piso polymer banknote has a lower carbon footprint than its paper counterpart, requiring less energy and resources for production, thus contributing less to climate change.

Cleaner

The First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series is significantly cleaner than paper banknotes due to its smooth and non-absorptive surface, which is resistant to water, oil, and dirt. The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed in its evidence review that viruses, including COVID-19, and bacteria last for a shorter period on polymer banknotes than on paper banknotes.

Polymer banknotes can also be sanitized with less risk of damage.

Stronger

The First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series is more durable than paper banknotes, lasting two to five times longer. This leads to lower banknote issue expenses in the long run.

On average, paper banknotes last for 1.5 years, while polymer banknotes last for as long as 7.5 years.

Similarly, other countries reported longer lifespans for polymer banknotes: New Zealand at 4.8 times and Canada at 2.5 times than paper banknotes.

Polymer banknotes’ resistance to dirt, water, and oil makes them more practical for everyday use, especially in wet markets and public transportation. BSP heat resistance studies also show that the Philippines’ tropical climate does not affect the durability of these banknotes.


Design and Security Features


The First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series shares the same color and size across its denominations as paper banknotes. Its design is consistent with the principles of currency integrity, social relevance, efficiency, and unified theme and aesthetics.

The series focuses on the country’s rich biodiversity. Showcasing the protected wildlife across the archipelago, this banknote series aims to remind Filipinos of their role as responsible stewards of the country’s natural resources and the need for collective efforts toward sustainability amid climate change and other environmental risks.

The banknotes also feature weave designs from various regions of the country, promoting vibrant cultural traditions and heritage.

Take a quick look at the polymer banknotes

Select a banknote and explore its features

1000-PISO
500-PISO
100-PISO
50-PISO

Hover over the banknote to explore its features


obverse side of 1000-piso polymer bill
polymer substrate
tactile dots
flying eagle
embossed print embossed print embossed print embossed print
shadow thread
vertical clear window
Multiple Security Features
flora clear window
serial numbers serial numbers
value panel
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Use the slider and explore its features

Philippine Eagle Portrait

Small clear window depicting the Sampaguita flower with embossed line structures and the text "BSP”

Vertically aligned value panel with rolling bar effect

T’nalak weave design

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Image of South Sea Pearl

Vertical clear window containing multiple security features

Five highly embossed dots

Shadow Thread

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The new polymer banknotes shall be circulated alongside the existing paper banknotes. Paper banknotes shall remain legal tender.

The BSP has always featured the country's heroes and natural wonders in banknotes and coins.

While the paper banknotes—which will remain in circulation—feature heroes, the polymer series will showcase the country's rich biodiversity.

Featuring different symbols of national pride in our banknotes and coins reflects numismatic dynamism and artistry and promotes appreciation of the Filipino identity.

A recent study* analyzing the carbon footprint or life cycle of 1000-piso polymer and paper banknotes showed that the polymer banknote’s carbon footprint is lower by 38.4 percent than that of the paper banknote.

* A 2023 independent study on the Global Warming Potential of Philippine banknotes by the De La Salle University–Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research

Yes. Both paper and polymer banknotes are not significantly affected by the Philippines’ warm, tropical climate. Moreover, polymer banknotes are superior in terms of cleanliness and durability due to their smoother and non-absorptive surfaces, which are more resistant to water, oil, and dirt.

The polymer series will not include the 200-piso and 20-piso denominations.

The 20-Piso New Generation Currency (NGC) banknotes are currently being removed from circulation through natural attrition after the introduction of the 20-Piso NGC coin.

On the other hand, the end of production for 200- piso New Generation Currency (NGC) banknotes was approved in 2021 due to low usage since its launch in 2010. The 200-piso NGC banknote shall remain legal tender until it becomes unfit for recirculation. The BSP assures the continued availability of other banknote denominations.

While polymer banknotes have been introduced, the existing paper banknotes will remain in circulation, and abaca will remain a key material for the paper banknotes.

Moreover, there is substantial unmet global demand for abaca, which our industry can take advantage of. The BSP strongly supports efforts to assist the country's abaca industry so it can benefit from this huge demand. Relevant government agencies are working with the industry to improve its competitiveness and help it access wider international markets.

Yes. Folded banknotes, whether paper or polymer, must be accepted in all payment transactions.

All individuals and establishments must accept paper and polymer banknotes.

An individual may report business establishments or individuals refusing to accept folded banknotes, whether paper or polymer, through the following channels:

• for banks and other BSP-supervised financial institutions:
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
bspmail@bsp.gov.ph

• for businesses:
Department of Trade and Industry
1-DTI (384) or ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph

• for public transport vehicle operators or drivers:
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board
1342 or (+632) 8529-7111
ochm@ltfrb.gov.ph

No. A person will not be penalized for folding paper and polymer banknotes and placing them in wallets or pockets. However, the BSP encourages the public to properly handle our banknotes and coins to prolong their lifespan.

No. Like paper banknotes, polymer banknotes should not be ironed or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Proper handling of banknotes and coins


Tips on how to properly handle banknotes and coins

Handle banknotes with respect to extend their lifespan.

Exchange unused coins at banks to maintain active currency flow.

Keep banknotes and coins clean.

Avoid writing or marking on them.

Do not crumple, tear, cut, or puncture them.

Keep them away from chemicals, fire, staples, adhesives, and high heat, such as from ironing.

The Philippine Currency Through the Years


Resources


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

Benefits

Acceptance Brochure
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Benefits

Acceptance Brochure
Ilocano