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From paper to plastic, banknotes around the country are set to get an upgrade.

The First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series was unveiled on Thursday, replacing the 14-year-old New Generation Currency Series (NGC) released on abaca paper in 2010.

Photos Courtesy of Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

“Today, I stand before you with pride as we unveil the first Philippine polymer banknote series— a groundbreaking step that embodies the strength, ingenuity, and forward momentum of our nation,” Marcos said during the launch at the Malacañan Palace. 

The shift to polymer banknotes aligns the Philippines with over 40 other countries, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Singapore, which have adopted polymer currencies—a technology available since 1988.

Polymer notes are more durable, lasting up to seven and a half years—five times longer than traditional paper bills—and are more resistant to counterfeiting, as reported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The new polymer banknotes feature endemic animals and plants, replacing the historical figures traditionally depicted in Philippine currency. 

The previously released P1,000 banknote showcases the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird, symbolizing strength and freedom, replacing war heroes Josefa Llanes-Escoda, Vicente Lim, and Jose Abad Santos.

On the P500 banknote, the rare and endangered Visayan Spotted Deer, is shown, which replaced politicians Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr., and late former president Corazon Aquino.

Meanwhile, the P100 banknote features the striking Palawan Peacock-Pheasant, a bird known for its vibrant plumage and found exclusively in Palawan, replacing former president Manuel Roxas.

Finally, the P50 banknote highlights the Visayan Leopard Cat, a small and elusive wild cat endemic to Visayas, which replaces former president Sergio Osmeña.

All banknotes will feature a security window with flora, or flowering species, endemic to the country.

A notable absentee is the P200 bill, which has shown a decline in interest due to its “odd” denomination.

The roll-out comes at a high time. Polymer banknotes are designed to address several challenges. Marcos emphasized that the new notes are more hygienic, citing a Department of Health study that found polymer banknotes to be cleaner than their paper counterparts. 

The enhanced security features are also expected to significantly reduce counterfeiting, a persistent global issue.

The longer lifespan of polymer notes means reduced production costs and waste, contributing to environmental sustainability. 

While the polymer notes’ production has been criticized by abaca industry stakeholders for its potential impact on local fiber farmers, Marcos assures that paper banknotes will continue to circulate alongside their polymer counterparts.

“Before I end, I would like to take this chance to remind everyone: Our paper banknotes will continue to circulate and will remain valid,” the President said.

The BSP announced plans to release polymer versions of all denominations in the first quarter of 2025, continuing its efforts to modernize the country’s currency. The move follows the success of the P1,000 polymer note, first introduced in April 2022. 

The central bank has partnered with German federal tech company Bundesdruckerei GmbH to enhance currency management and explore digital payment infrastructure.

“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,” he said.