MANILA, Philippines — Defacing Philippine banknotes is a punishable offense under the law, the Bangko Sentral ng Philippines (BSP) warned the public on Tuesday. “The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas warns the public that the willful defacement, mutilation, tearing, burning or destruction of Philippine banknotes and coins are punishable by a fine of not more than P20,000.00 and/or imprisonment of not more than five years,” the BSP said in a statement. Under the law, writing or putting marks on banknotes is prohibited. Tearing, burning or destruction of Philippine currency, including excessive folding or crumpling that may affect its visual appearance or breakage, is also not allowed. Lastly, exposing banknotes or coins to chemicals resulting in defacement and destruction is prohibited.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer February 19, 2019 09:00 UTC