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.

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)

Acceptance Brochure (English)

Acceptance Brochure (Filipino)

Acceptance Brochure (Cebuano)

Acceptance Brochure (Ilocano)

Acceptance Brochure (Ilonggo)

Design and Security Features