MANILA, Philippines — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is under fire for its decision to remove national heroes from the country’s new polymer banknotes, sparking outrage among historians, activists, and citizens who argue that the move erases vital symbols of the nation’s struggles and triumphs.

The new banknote series, unveiled at Malacañang on Thursday, replaces the faces of historical figures with images of wildlife, such as the Visayan spotted deer (₱500), Palawan peacock-pheasant (₱100), and Visayan leopard cat (₱50). While the BSP touted these designs as innovative and reflective of the country’s biodiversity, critics argue that the move diminishes the legacy of those who fought for freedom and justice.

The August Twenty-One Movement (ATOM) released a strongly worded statement, calling the change an affront to the memory of Filipino martyrs. “Forget not those who have fallen during the night,” ATOM said, quoting Dr. Jose Rizal. They lamented the exclusion of figures such as Apolinario Mabini, Andres Bonifacio, Jose Abad Santos, Josefa Llanes Escoda, Vicente Lim, and others who once graced Philippine currency.

The statement also highlighted the sacrifices of those who resisted the Marcos dictatorship, including Edgar Jopson, Bobby dela Paz, Johnny Escandor, Macliing Dulag, and Ninoy Aquino. Ninoy, whose image remains on the current ₱500 note along with former president Corazon Aquino, symbolizes the fight against tyranny.

“For more than two decades, the dictator’s family has been hard at work trying to rewrite history and erase from our collective memory the heroes who bravely fought for our freedom,” ATOM said, warning that the changes are part of a larger effort to diminish the significance of the country’s heroes.

Public historian Professor Xiao Chua echoed these concerns. “A people devoid of heroes. What a country. But no amount of defacement of our heroes and great leaders will take away the lessons they left behind and the spirit of nation-building that they exemplified,” he said.

Public Outrage on Social Media

The announcement also ignited a firestorm of criticism on social media. Many users ridiculed the new designs, suggesting they better represent corruption rather than biodiversity.

“Nasa new design ba si Lolong? Dapat may crocodile. Para symbol ng Phil. politics,” quipped Chabelita G.H., referring to Lolong, the world’s largest crocodile held in captivity. In Filipino culture, “crocodile” is a colloquial term for corrupt politicians and officials.

Another user, John R.S., sarcastically added, “Lagyan nila ng buwaya, babagay para sa mga politiko.”

Others criticized the move as a distraction from more pressing national issues. “Sa dami ng pwedeng unahin, gaya ng PhilHealth, education sector, at pagpapanagot sa mga kurakot na opisyal ng pamahalaan, pagpapalit pa ng itsura ng pera ang inuna,” commented Timothy D.

Some also called for the revival of the ₱200 and ₱20 bills, especially since the latter, commonly given during Christmas, has been replaced by coins. “Nasaan naman ang ₱200 and ₱20 na papel,” said Mary G.

BSP’s Rationale

The BSP defended the shift, describing the polymer series as “smarter, cleaner, and stronger” banknotes. They emphasized the practicality of polymer, which lasts up to 7.5 years and reduces costs and waste.

“Unlike the current paper banknotes, which showcase the country’s heroes and natural wonders, the polymer series highlights the Philippines’ rich biodiversity,” the BSP said. “This shift reflects the BSP’s commitment to promoting national pride through numismatic artistry while fostering an appreciation of Filipino identity.”

Critics, however, argue that these practical benefits fail to outweigh the cultural and historical significance of honoring national heroes on currency.

“At the end of the day, it is the people who decide,” ATOM said in its statement. “May the legacy and spirit of all our martyrs and leaders about to be removed from our bills continue to be remembered and serve as inspiration in the hearts of our people.”

The polymer banknotes will begin circulating in the Greater Manila area on December 23, 2024, and nationwide by January 2025. As the public gets its first glimpse of these new designs, the debate over their impact on the nation’s identity and memory of its heroes is likely to intensify.

📷 Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas