The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has unveiled the new 500-piso polymer banknote, the latest addition to the First Philippine Polymer (FPP) Banknote Series. This new banknote will circulate alongside the existing paper banknotes.
The 500-piso polymer banknote showcases the beauty and importance of Philippine biodiversity by featuring a pair of endemic and threatened species: the Visayan spotted deer and the Acanthephippium mantinianum orchid. The reverse side of the banknote depicts the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the critically endangered blue-naped parrot.
According to BSP, the new 500-piso polymer banknote is not only a secure and durable form of currency, but it also serves as a celebration of our unique natural heritage.
The FPP Banknote Series is designed to be more durable, counterfeit-resistant, and environmentally friendly than traditional paper banknotes.