Philippines Bitcoin Reserve Bill Seeks 10,000 BTC
π΅π The Philippines is preparing to make a bold move in the crypto space with a proposed bill that would establish a 10,000 Bitcoin strategic reserve, potentially reshaping the nationβs financial future.
The Strategic Plan for a Philippines Bitcoin Reserve
π° A newly filed bill in the Congress of the Philippines could soon position the country among Southeast Asiaβs leaders in digital asset adoption. Known as the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act, it would require the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to purchase 2,000 Bitcoin annually for five years, totaling a 10,000 BTC reserve. The measure underscores growing recognition of the value of a Philippines Bitcoin reserve in diversifying national assets.
π At current market prices, the 10,000 Bitcoin reserve would be worth around $1.1 billion. According to the bill, these holdings would be locked in trust for a minimum of 20 years. The only exception would be if the government decided to use the funds to retire debt. This safeguard emphasizes the strategic purpose of the Philippines Bitcoin reserveβprotecting financial stability while securing long-term value.
Why a Philippines Bitcoin Reserve Matters
π Representative Migz Villafuerte, the lawmaker behind the bill, called Bitcoin βdigital gold,β highlighting its average annual growth of 40% over the past five years. He stressed that the Philippines needs to adapt to the changing role of cryptocurrency in global markets. By implementing a Philippines Bitcoin reserve, the nation would be following in the footsteps of El Salvador and Bhutan, which have already adopted large-scale Bitcoin holdings.
π The proposal also outlines transparency requirements. If passed, the BSP would be required to maintain a proof-of-reserves system, with quarterly public reports detailing total Bitcoin holdings, transactions, and even control of private keys. This would make the Philippines Bitcoin reserve one of the most transparent national crypto programs in the world.
Global Context of the Philippines Bitcoin Reserve
β‘ If the bill becomes law, the Philippines could surpass El Salvadorβs Bitcoin holdings. El Salvador currently holds 6,276 BTC, while Bhutan has 10,565 BTC. With a full 10,000 Bitcoin, a Philippines Bitcoin reserve would push the country close to Bhutanβs level, making it one of the largest national holders of Bitcoin.
π Beyond competition, the move signals a shift in how countries think about financial security. Instead of relying solely on traditional assets like gold and foreign currency reserves, a Philippines Bitcoin reserve would anchor stability in digital value. This could attract global attention, positioning the Philippines as a crypto-forward nation in Asia.
Potential Impact of the Philippines Bitcoin Reserve
π Locking the Bitcoin holdings for two decades could protect them from political or market volatility, allowing the value to grow while shielding the funds from short-term pressures. This 20-year horizon suggests that the Philippines Bitcoin reserve is not about speculation, but about ensuring intergenerational financial security.
π‘ If the initiative succeeds, it could also inspire other Southeast Asian nations to consider similar strategies. A Philippines Bitcoin reserve would then serve as a model for integrating digital assets into national economies, demonstrating how Bitcoin can play a role in safeguarding wealth and reducing reliance on foreign currency markets.
