By Kenneth Marcos 
At a small sari-sari store, a customer hands over a familiar-looking 10-peso coin. This time, the design is different, catching the eye of both buyer and seller. It is not just a souvenir or collector’s item. It is real money that can be used for everyday purchases.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has confirmed that the new 10-piso ASEAN commemorative coin is now in circulation and can be used alongside existing 10-peso coins. The coin was released to mark the Philippines’ role as Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 2026.
The new coin is legal tender. This means it has the same value and buying power as other 10-peso coins already in use. Filipinos can use it to pay for jeepney fares, groceries, market goods, and other daily expenses without any restrictions.
The ASEAN-themed coin celebrates regional unity and cooperation among Southeast Asian nations. It highlights the Philippines’ leadership role in guiding ASEAN discussions, meetings, and programs throughout 2026. The chairmanship is seen as an important responsibility, as ASEAN plays a key role in trade, security, labor mobility, and regional stability.
Officials said the release of the commemorative coin aims to raise public awareness about ASEAN and the country’s participation in regional affairs. Instead of being kept only as a keepsake, the coin is meant to circulate widely so more Filipinos can see and use it in their daily lives.
The Philippines has been a member of ASEAN since 1967. Over the years, the regional bloc has helped strengthen economic ties, promote peace, and support cooperation among its ten member states. For ordinary Filipinos, ASEAN affects many aspects of life, from overseas work opportunities to food trade and disaster response.
By placing the ASEAN symbol on a commonly used coin, authorities hope to bring these regional efforts closer to the public. The design serves as a reminder that the Philippines is part of a wider Southeast Asian community working toward shared goals.
Banks and businesses have been advised to accept the new coin without hesitation. Under Philippine law, all BSP-issued coins that are declared legal tender must be honored in transactions. Refusing valid currency may cause inconvenience to customers and disrupt daily commerce.
The central bank also reminded the public to treat the new coin like any other currency. It should not be hoarded excessively or sold at inflated prices. While some collectors may value it for its design and meaning, it remains a standard 10-peso coin for everyday use.
As the Philippines takes on its role as ASEAN Chair in 2026, the coin stands as a simple but meaningful symbol of regional partnership. From public markets to transport terminals, it carries a message of cooperation that reaches ordinary Filipinos, one transaction at a time.
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