(Photo courtesy : Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas)
QUEZON CITY — The Philippines is set to mark a key diplomatic milestone with the release of a new 10-piso commemorative coin celebrating its chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 2026, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas announced.
Scheduled for release this January, the coin will follow the design standards of the country’s New Generation Currency series to ensure consistency with existing legal tender. Its obverse side retains the familiar 10-piso layout bearing the image of national hero Apolinario Mabini, underscoring continuity in everyday circulation while introducing a design tied to a moment of regional importance.
The reverse side, however, carries distinct features that set the commemorative coin apart. It highlights the Philippines’ leadership role in Association of Southeast Asian Nations for 2026, with visual elements centered on unity, cooperation, and shared aspirations among member states. Prominently displayed is the official ASEAN 2026 emblem, complemented by a QR code that links to verified online information related to the country’s hosting of ASEAN meetings and activities.
According to the BSP, the integration of a scannable QR code reflects a move toward modernizing commemorative currency, allowing the public to engage with digital content while reinforcing transparency and accessibility surrounding ASEAN-related initiatives.
Beyond its function as legal tender, the commemorative 10-piso coin is intended to serve as a daily reminder of the Philippines’ role in shaping regional dialogue and cooperation. By embedding the ASEAN 2026 theme into a widely used denomination, the central bank aims to bring public attention to the country’s leadership in Southeast Asia and the broader goals of economic integration and regional solidarity.
The coin will be released into nationwide circulation starting January 2026, making it available not only to collectors but also to the general public through ordinary transactions.