The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has been awarded Currency Manager of the Year by Central Banking, a UK-based publication serving the global central banking community. The recognition underscores BSP’s leadership in ensuring a reliable and secure currency supply for the expanding economy, with a focus on innovation and international collaboration.
Announced in March and presented on 11 June 2025, the award highlighted the BSP’s rollout of the polymer banknote series, which began with the 1,000-piso note in 2022 and expanded in December 2024 to include the 500-, 100-, and 50-piso denominations. The shift to polymer was praised for its enhanced durability, security, and hygiene—key factors in modernizing currency systems for efficiency and public trust.
Central Banking also commended BSP’s strategic agreements with international partners, including Banque de France, Bundesdruckerei (Germany’s state-owned printer), and Note Printing Australia, the Reserve Bank of Australia’s subsidiary. These partnerships strengthen BSP’s capabilities in currency production, security, and supply chain management.
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr., in a recorded message, emphasized the continued importance of physical currency in a growing economy, stating: “We’re committed to ensuring our people have enough of them and have faith in them.”Assistant Governor Mary Anne Lim accepted the award, citing robust collaboration with global institutions.
The award reinforces the BSP’s growing global reputation, following earlier honors such as:
- Best New Banknote Series for its polymer series (IACA, May 2025)
- Best Re-Circulation/Distribution Innovation for its Coin Deposit Machine initiative (IACA, May 2024)
- An A- rating for Governor Remolona from Global Finance (August 2024)
As the BSP continues to issue both polymer and paper notes, the recognition affirms the central bank’s vital role in enhancing economic resilience and public confidence through innovative currency management.
