Think twice before photocopying Philippine banknotes—even as a political joke

BSP’s Circular No. 829, Series of 2014, prohibits reproducing the image of any legal tender Philippine banknote.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has reminded the public that reproducing or printing images of Philippine banknotes without authorization is prohibited, as photos and videos of photocopied bills continue circulating online following the recent impeachment trial.

The reminder resurfaced after supporters of a political group began posting images and videos of photocopied ₱1,000 bills to mock a prosecution lawyer’s remark during the Senate impeachment proceedings. While many users treated the posts as satire or political commentary, the BSP warned that reproducing Philippine currency—even for seemingly harmless purposes—may carry serious legal consequences.

In a public advisory, the BSP cited Circular No. 829, Series of 2014, which prohibits reproducing the image of any legal tender Philippine banknote, in whole or in part, in black and white, in color, or in any combination of colors, without prior authorization or approval from the central bank.

HOURGViolators may face imprisonment of five to 10 years, according to the advisory.

The BSP stressed that the prohibition covers printed reproductions that bear the facsimile or likeness of Philippine banknotes, regardless of whether the copies are intended as props, souvenirs, political statements, or social media content.

The central bank noted that limited reproduction of banknote images may be allowed only after securing BSP approval for educational, historical, numismatic, newsworthy, or other legitimate purposes that promote or preserve the integrity and dignity of Philippine currency.

The reminder comes as social media platforms have seen a wave of users sharing images of freshly photocopied bills in response to the high-profile impeachment proceedings, with some even showing stacks of reproduced banknotes.

While online reactions have largely framed the posts as political memes, the BSP’s advisory serves as a reminder that reproducing Philippine currency is not merely a matter of expression but one governed by law.

Authorities have yet to announce whether any investigations will be launched over the recent online posts, but the BSP continues to urge the public to refrain from reproducing Philippine banknotes without the required authorization.

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