royaleinfinity @ jakwin Polymer banknote series makes peso ‘cleaner’–FM Jr.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos believes the newly-launched polymer banknote series (PBS) of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will make the country’s currency cleaner, environmental friendly, as well as more secure and durable.

In his speech during a ceremony presenting the banknote series in Malacañang last Thursday, Marcos said the Philippines now joins the over 40 countries, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Singapore, which have adopted the PBS due to its known advantages compared to traditional paper bills.

Citing studies from the Department of Health, he said banknotes made out of polymer are less likely to carry germs, bacteria, and even viruses unlike paper bills.

“Thanks to their smooth, non-absorbent surfaces, they are less likely to hold onto harmful pathogens. And if they do get dirty, you can easily wipe them off with a damp cloth without any damage to the banknote, whatsoever,” Marcos said.

The Chief Executive added that banknotes made out of polymer can also include advanced security features; making it more difficult to be replicated and minimizing the possibility of it being counterfeited.

“Notably, countries like Malaysia and Vietnam have seen significant drops in counterfeiting after switching to such polymer notes,” Marcos said. The polymer notes can last up to seven and a half years—five times longer paper bills, which become worn out after just a year, according to the President.