President Rodrigo Duterte is “delighted” over the launch Monday of the PHP5,000 Lapu-Lapu commemorative banknote and medal in honor of the 500th anniversary of Lapu-Lapu’s victory in the Battle of Mactan.

In a taped message broadcasted during the launch, Duterte said he was greatly pleased with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and National Quincentennial Committee collaboration for the design of the banknote to celebrate the heroism of Lapu-Lapu and his warriors.

“I am delighted to see Lapu-Lapu and the warriors of Mactan as well as the majestic Mt. Apo and the great Philippine eagle being featured in these commemorative items,” he said.

Duterte, who has mentioned Lapu-Lapu in his speeches several times, emphasized the need to “elevate” the hero’s standing among other Filipino heroes.

“Indeed, 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 said.

He also expressed hope that the 500th anniversary of the Victory in Mactan would inspire Filipinos to embrace national identity.

“May this momentous occasion inspire every Filipino to embrace our national identity by embodying Lapu-Lapu’s heroism as we face the challenges ahead,” he added.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea received a commemorative banknote and medal on behalf of Duterte.

BSP Deputy Governor Francisco Dakila said the bank note includes an image of Lapu-Lapu on its front, a Philippine Eagle on its back, and the usual security features of other peso bank notes.

It also shows a Filipino warship called Karaoka, a coconut tree, and Mount Apo.

Meanwhile, the commemorative medal features the Lapu-Lapu shrine in Cebu on its front and the battle of Mactan and the date “27 April, 1521” on its back.

The PHP5,000 Lapu-Lapu commemorative banknote and medal are for commemorative purposes only and cannot be used to buy items.

Lapu-Lapu, a datu of Mactan, led Filipinos to victory against Spanish invaders led by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

The Battle of Mactan is celebrated every year on April 27 to remember the bravery and victory of the first Filipino hero. (PNA)