Manila: The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is aiming to relaunch the operation of coin deposit machines (CoDMs) in Metro Manila before the end of the year. In a recent media luncheon, BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat informed reporters that the initial relaunch of the existing 25 CoDMs is targeted for the last week of October to early November 2026.
According to Philippines News Agency, this timeline considers the necessary software enhancements, modifications to the enclosure and hardware components, as well as the calibration, accuracy testing, and end-to-end testing of the existing CoDM units before their deployment. CoDMs facilitate customers in conveniently depositing legal tender coins and directly crediting the equivalent amount to their GCash electronic wallets.
The BSP temporarily suspended the operation of CoDMs last year to review strategies for re-circulating idle coins. Following this review, the BSP decided to relaunch the coin deposit machines as part of its commitment to enhancing the coin recirculation program. To reduce operational costs, the BSP partnered with SM, allowing the private sector to bear the coin retrieval cost.
Aside from the 25 CoDMs previously deployed in Metro Manila, another 25 machines are planned for deployment in other areas next year. Romulo-Puyat mentioned that these machines would be placed in locations with high populations, such as Pampanga, Baguio, Cebu, and possibly Davao.
