The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have filed criminal complaints against six individuals recently arrested for willfully mutilating Philippine coins.
The suspects were apprehended in separate entrapment operations conducted by the BSP and PNP in Siquijor and Boracay, Aklan.
The BSP’s Payments and Currency Investigation Group (PCIG) and the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) filed the charges before the Siquijor Provincial and Aklan Provincial Prosecutor’s Offices.
Among those charged was an individual identified as “Jess,” who went viral on social media for destroying a ₱10 coin and turning it into a ring in Siquijor. Another suspect was caught engaging in the same illegal activity in Boracay.
Under Presidential Decree No. 247, the willful defacement, mutilation, tearing, burning, or destruction of Philippine banknotes and coins is punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine not exceeding ₱20,000.
The BSP urges the public to handle Philippine banknotes and coins with respect and care to preserve their integrity as part of the country’s cultural and historical heritage.
The BSP also encourages reporting of any currency mutilation incidents to the nearest police station or the BSP PCIG via email at pcig@bsp.gov.ph or through (02) 8988-4833 and (02) 8926-5092.
