More security features to be added to Philippines banknotes

MANILA, Philippines — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) remains consistent in its effort to upgrade the security features of banknotes to further deter counterfeiting activities ,according to BSP Governor Benjamin  Diokno.

Diokno said during the launch of the first set of banknotes bearing his name and signature the additional security features would be launched in the first quarter of 2020.

Diokno said the additional security arrangements include an upgraded windowed security thread with unique color and design per denomination, anti-copying and anti-scanning features as well as the incorporation of tactile marks.

“The upgraded security thread, and anti copying and anti-scanning features will improve counterfeit deterrence,” Diokno said.

The BSP chief said the incorporation of tactile marks is part of the central bank’s commitment to promote broad and convenient access to financial services to the Filipino people.

“These new generation banknotes are special because they are printed through Intaglio printing technology. This means that the names and signatures are raised and embossed for tactile feel,” Diokno said.

According to Diokno, existing security features include embossed prints, asymmetric serial numbers, security fibers, watermark, see-through mark, concealed value that can be seen by naked eye.

The release of the banknotes bearing Diokno’s signature marks the anniversary of the BSP and is part of the celebrations in connection with 70 years of central banking in the Philippines.

The P20, P50, P100, P200, P500 and P1,000 banknotes with the governor’s name and signature are the freshest set of peso bills printed under the currently-circulated “New Generation Currency” series.