The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday launched the 5,000-Piso Lapu-Lapu Commemorative Banknote and Silver Commemorative Medal.
This is in line with the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the country which include the 500th Anniversary of the Victory of Mactan.
BSP Officer-In-Charge Francisco Dakila said the victory of the country’s heroes like Lapulapu is a great reminder in the prevailing pandemic.
The image of young Lapu-Lapu, Battle of Mactan, and a Karakoa are seen in the banknote, while the image of the Lapu-Lapu Shrine in Cebu and the logo of the Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines are placed in the commemorative medal.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea accepted the banknote for President Rodrigo Duterte.
In a recorded speech, President Duterte said he is “delighted to see Lapu-Lapu”, Mactan warriors, Mt. Apo, and the Philippine eagle in the commemorative items.
“If we are to apply to truly celebrate our rich history as a nation, we need to elevate Lapu-Lapu to a greater standing among the pantheon of Filipino heroes. We therefore dedicate this bank note and this medal to his historical victory in Mactan 500 years ago,” he stated.
The Chief Executive hopes this will inspire Filipinos to embrace their national identity “by embodying Lapu-Lapu’s heroism” in facing challenges ahead. – Report from Naomi Tiburcio, with reports from Mela Lesmoras
