BSP, PNP file criminal complaints against suspects who mutilated coins

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have filed criminal complaints against six suspects who are alleged to have destroyed Philippine coins, including one who went viral online for turning a P10 coin into a ring.

In a statement released Monday, the BSP said the individuals were apprehended in separate entrapment operations in Siquijor and Boracay in Aklan, with charges filed before the Siquijor and Aklan Provincial Prosecutor’s Offices.

Among the suspects is “Jess” who was seen in a social media post destroying a P10 coin and turning it into a ring in Siquijor, and another who was caught doing the same activity in Boracay.

This comes as Presidential Decree 247 provides penalties of imprisonment of up to five years and/or a fine of up to P20,000 for individuals found to have willfully defaced, mutilated, tore, burned, or destroyed Philippine banknotes and coins.

“The BSP reminds the public to handle all Philippine banknotes and coins with due respect and dignity, and to protect their integrity as part of the country’s rich culture and heritage,” the BSP said. —RF, GMA Integrated News