Wazzup Pilipinas!?
The recent redesign of Philippine banknotes has sparked significant debate across the nation. At first glance, the inclusion of iconic biodiversity elements such as indigenous flora and fauna is a welcome development. Showcasing the country's rich natural heritage on our currency reflects environmental awareness and a sense of pride in our nation's ecological treasures. However, beneath this seemingly progressive move lies a deeper concern—the potential erasure of the faces of our national heroes from one of the most visible symbols of national identity: our currency.
A Question of Balance: Nature vs. Legacy
Currency isn’t just a medium of exchange; it’s a tangible representation of a nation's history, values, and identity. For decades, Philippine banknotes have featured prominent heroes and historical figures—people who sacrificed their lives, time, and efforts for our freedom and democracy. Figures such as Manuel L. Quezon, Sergio Osmeña, Jose Abad Santos, Ninoy Aquino, and Corazon Aquino remind every Filipino of our collective struggles and triumphs.
While no one can argue against highlighting the importance of environmental conservation, the sudden shift to designs heavily focused on wildlife raises questions:
Why does it feel like the heroes are being pushed aside?
Was there a consultative process involving the public in this monumental change?
Is this move truly about environmental advocacy, or does it carry a hidden political agenda?
These are valid concerns, and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) owes the Filipino people transparency in explaining the rationale and long-term plans behind this redesign.
The Danger of Erasing Heroes from Memory
In countries like the United States, banknote designs have remained consistent for decades. Faces of leaders like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Benjamin Franklin continue to grace their currency, serving as daily reminders of their contributions to the nation. Changing these designs is not merely about aesthetics—it’s about preserving collective memory and ensuring future generations remain connected to their nation's past.
In the Philippines, while BSP assures that old banknotes will remain in circulation alongside the new polymer ones, history suggests otherwise. Over time, older bills are phased out, and the newer designs become the sole representation of the country's currency. What happens then when the faces of our heroes are entirely absent from our banknotes? Will future generations still remember their sacrifices?
Politics and Currency: A Dangerous Mix
Critics argue that the redesign is not purely about modernizing security features or promoting biodiversity but may be subtly influenced by political motives. Historical revisionism has long been a concern in the Philippines, and currency redesigns have often been viewed as opportunities to reshape narratives.
The question remains: Are we witnessing an innocent redesign, or is this part of a broader strategy to downplay the significance of certain historical figures? It’s a valid concern, especially given the country's complex political landscape.
A Call for Inclusivity and Transparency
There is no need to choose between honoring our heroes and showcasing our natural heritage—they can coexist. A thoughtful redesign could integrate both elements, preserving the images of our heroes while also celebrating the country's rich biodiversity.
The BSP must clarify:
Will the production of old banknotes continue alongside the new polymer bills indefinitely?
Is there a definitive plan to phase out older designs?
Why were the faces of our national heroes excluded in the first place?
Transparency is critical in addressing these concerns and preventing speculation about political interference.
A Suggestion for the Future
Some have suggested introducing higher-denomination banknotes—₱1,500, ₱2,000, or even ₱5,000 bills—that feature modern heroes such as Miriam Defensor Santiago, Jesse Robredo, or Fernando Poe Jr. These additions could complement existing designs and serve as an opportunity to honor more contemporary figures without erasing the legacy of historical heroes.
Moreover, why not explore hybrid designs using abaca fiber and polymer materials to ensure durability and sustainability? This approach could address both environmental concerns and the preservation of historical imagery.
In Conclusion: Heritage Must Not Be Forgotten
The issue isn't about rejecting change or resisting progress. It’s about ensuring that progress does not come at the cost of forgetting our roots. Our heroes are not just historical footnotes; they are integral to our identity as Filipinos. Removing them from our currency diminishes their contributions and risks eroding our collective memory as a nation.
The BSP, as the steward of our monetary system, must carefully navigate this path, balancing environmental advocacy with historical preservation. After all, a nation's currency is more than just paper or polymer—it’s a mirror of its soul, its identity, and its values.
It’s time for open dialogue, transparency, and a collective effort to ensure our banknotes honor both our natural wonders and the heroes who made our nation what it is today.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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