Bawal I-Fold? 9 Wallets That Are Long Enough For The New Peso Bills

We’ve come a long way since Mickey Mouse Money, but the joke may still be on us. As both the US Dollar exchange rate and gas prices rise, the Philippine Peso continues to look like play money in an expensive world. Let’s hope the Philippine Eagle’s fierce stare on the new P1,000 bills gives us the courage, dignity, and unity we are all working hard for.

Recently, however, the incoming Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) governor Felipe Medalla’s suggestions na bawal i-fold ang new Philippine Peso bills have people scratching their heads and raising their eyebrows. What’s the big deal with the polymer banknote anyway? And why do people have to consider getting longer wallets for it?

What’s the difference between polymer banknotes and paper money?

Polymer banknotes are essentially made of plastic, or polypropylene. According to The Manila Bulletin, the previous BSP governor Benjamin Diokno said this decision was made “to address public concerns for a more hygienic, durable and cost-effective, pro-environment, and difficult to counterfeit banknotes.” 

Polymer banknotes are water-resistant, dirt-proof, and difficult to counterfeit. That’s because they are printed on a film-like material that makes it smooth and actually more hygienic.

The downside is that it’s not suitable to being folded and it will develop a visible crease if you force it. This is why the BSP official guidelines specify that the polymer P1,000 bill should be kept flat, clean, and undamaged.

Another thing about polymer banknotes is that it will get sticky when wet. The film-like substance produces a strange feeling to the touch when it is exposed to too much moisture, so maybe don’t wash your money even if it’s supposed to be waterproof.

The BSP notes that the Philippines will now be among other countries that use polymer bills such as Canada, New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom, Mexico, Vietnam, Fiji, and Malaysia. The United States, on the other hand, will continue to use paper money, which can be crumpled, torn, dampened, and tampered with. Previously, the paper money of the Philippine Peso used 80% local abaca.

9 Long Wallets For The New Money

Perhaps people who live in those polymer-using countries have already grown accustomed to using long wallets, but it may take a while for the Philippines. (Can you imagine your suki tricycle driver having to use one of these?) Nevertheless, we’re prepared to embrace change and, if we can literally save money by keeping the new P1,000 polymer bill crisp, clean, and of value, then let’s do it.

For Moms

Moms may have the best of luck in this problem because there are so many cute long wallets to choose from. From affordable but no less chic designs like the Shigetsu Chichibu Folding Wallet with Flip Pocket (P999), which can be found on Zalora, to the Zara Animal Print Crossover XL Wallet (P1,995) -- maybe just have a long wallet for every other day, depending on your mood. Or, get the Charles & Keith Ombre Zip-Around Wallet in Peacock (P1,799) and let it match whatever you're feeling anyway.

For Dads

BSP governor Medalla said, "Mas madali yan sa babae kasi may handbag kayo." It's true, but he didn't offer any solutions for dads. If misis doesn't mind carrying another one of these long wallets for you, then great! But if not, at least you have a lot of space in these slim designs.

The Tannery Manila's multi-currency and zipper compartments can hold everything from cash to receipts in the Brianne, Black Yama (P1,800). Or, you can keep it simple and compact with a Swiss Polo (P1,190) long wallet, which uses genuine leather, 11 card holders, and has RFID-blocking technology, available on Zalora. The Herschel Thomas (P3,490) may be the priciest option on this list, but it also has space for your smartphone.

For Multi-Use

While these pouches are used for cosmetics or accessories (like keys or charger cords), they can also be used for money if they’re long enough and you want a more casual, unisex look. The Jansport (P390) Accessories Pouch has a single main compartment that is straight to the point, available at Zalora. We suggest that maybe don’t put anything else in the pouch that might damage the money, though! The same goes for the pricier but more hip Herschel Fourteen Hip Pack (P1,990) that cool dads can sling around, but an affordable (and actually more secure) Neck Strap Bag (P799) option can be found at H&M.

How to keep your polymer bank notes clean and crisp

1. Use a damp cloth or towel to wipe it. 

2. Do NOT staple, write on, or fold the polymer bill.

3. If you accidentally fold or crease the bank note, put the bill under a heavy book or something similar for a short time to flatten it. Do NOT iron or expose the bank note to extreme heat or cold.