BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas warned the public on Friday that anybody found guilty of mutilating or defacing its issued banknotes and coins will be fined and put behind bars.
The warning came in the wake of a reported video showing the burning of what appeared to be Philippine banknotes that caught the attention of Bangko Sentral officials.
In a statement, the regulator said it was investigating the incident for appropriate action.
“The BSP reminds the public that it is unlawful to willfully deface, mutilate, tear, burn or destroy, in any manner whatsoever, currency notes and coins issued by the BSP, pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 247,” it said.
“Any person who shall violate this decree shall be fined in the amount of not more than P20,000 and/or imprisoned for a period of not more than five years,” it said.
