TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre has expressed support for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)’s decision to replace images of national heroes on the new polymer banknotes with depictions of the country’s biodiversity.
Acidre emphasized that the BSP likely had sound reasons for the redesign, including the use of polymer as a durable and sustainable material for the new currency.
“Let’s defer to the BSP on this decision. In reality, other countries have also replaced national heroes on their currencies. This is not unique to the Philippines,” Acidre said in an interview on Sunday, December 22.
He also addressed criticisms from those opposing the removal of national heroes from banknotes, stating that their legacy goes beyond their depiction on money.
“National heroes are important, whether they appear on banknotes or not. What matters is that they remain in our thoughts and hearts,” he added.
The BSP’s decision has sparked debate, with various groups and individuals questioning the move to feature animals and natural landmarks over historical figures. However, the central bank clarified that banknotes bearing the images of national heroes will remain in circulation alongside the polymer series.
In a statement, the BSP explained that the redesign highlights “numismatic dynamism and artistry” while promoting an appreciation for Filipino identity and biodiversity.
The new polymer banknotes, launched on December 19, incorporate advanced anti-counterfeiting measures, a lower carbon footprint, and a longer lifespan of up to seven and a half years.
New Banknote Features
P1,000 bill: Philippine eagle, sampaguita flowers, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, South Sea pearl, and T’nalak weave design (replacing World War II heroes Jose Abad Santos, Vicente Lim, and Josefa Llanes Escoda).
P500 bill: Visayan spotted deer, Acanthephippium mantinianum, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, blue-naped parrot, and southern Philippine weave design (replacing former Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. and former President Corazon Aquino).
P100 bill: Philippine peacock-pheasant, Ceratocentron fesselii, Mayon Volcano, whale shark, and Bicol Region weave design (replacing former President Manuel Roxas).
P50 bill: Visayan leopard, Vidal’s lanutan, Taal Lake, native maliputo fish, and Batangas embroidery design (replacing former President Sergio Osmeña).
The BSP reiterated that the updated banknotes aim to showcase the country’s natural wealth and cultural heritage while ensuring the highest standards of security and durability.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
