BSP issues ASEAN, Festivals coins

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. received a series of commemorative coins from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Wednesday, spotlighting the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the country’s rich festival culture.

At a ceremony in Malacañan Palace, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. and Deputy Governor Mamerto E. Tangonan presented Mr. Marcos with the 10-peso ASEAN 2026 Commemorative Circulation Coin.

The presentation was also attended by ASEAN National Organizing Council Representative Aian Caringal and Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Ana Marie L. Hernando.

The coin, which features a woven pattern, rice stalks, waves and a balangay boat, is embedded with a QR code that provides information about ASEAN 2026, highlighting the Philippines’ leadership in steering regional initiatives next year.

Mr. Marcos also received a preview of the 12-coin series of 100-peso Philippine Festivals Silver Commemorative Coins, set to be released starting January 2026.

Each coin will spotlight one of the nation’s signature festivals, including the Sinulog in Cebu City, Kadayawan in Davao, MassKara in Bacolod, and the Giant Lantern Festival in Pampanga, among others. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana