

The individuals were apprehended in separate entrapment operations conducted by the BSP and the PNP in Siquijor and Boracay in Aklan, the BSP said in a statement.
The BSP’s Payments and Currency Investigation Group (PCIG) and PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) filed the charges before the Siquijor provincial and Aklan provincial prosecutor’s offices.
The suspects include one identified as “Jess” who went viral on social media for willfully destroying a 10-piso coin and turning it into a ring in Siquijor; and another one who was also caught doing the same illegal activity in Boracay.
Under Presidential Decree No. 247, the willful defacement, mutilation, tearing, burning or destruction of Philippine banknotes and coins is unlawful and punishable by imprisonment of up to five years and/or a fine not exceeding P20,000.00.
The BSP asked 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.
It also urged the public to report any information on currency mutilation to the nearest police station or to the BSP.
*****
Credit belongs to: www.manilastandard.net