This National Heritage Month, PHLPost is taking us on a journey through history with its latest commemorative stamp collection. Showcasing eight iconic heritage structures and historic sites, these stamps not only celebrate the beauty of the Philippines but also pay tribute to the birth of the Filipino nation and its role as Asia’s first democracy and constitutional republic.
Let’s explore the captivating stories behind these stunning stamps and the celebration that inspired their creation.
A Celebration of National Heritage
To honor the 2023 National Heritage Month (NHM), the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) partnered with the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. (FHFI), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and FUNtastic Philippines Inc. The collaboration resulted in releasing a unique set of stamps, each highlighting a different heritage structure or historic site.
The celebration, titled “Kalayaan ay Pamana”, aims to instill a greater appreciation and respect for the nation’s cultural history among the Filipino people. This effort aligns with Presidential Proclamation No. 439, which designates May the National Heritage Month or Buwan ng Pambansang Pamana.
A Glimpse into the Past Through Stamps
The eight featured heritage sites include:
- Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite
- Sideco House, San Isidro Nueva Ecija
- Cabanatuan Cathedral Convent, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
- Pamintuan Mansion, Angeles City
- Tarlac Cathedral, Tarlac City, Tarlac
- Cuenca House, Bacoor, Cavite
- Malolos Cathedral Convent, Malolos City, Bulacan
- Barasoain Church, Malolos City, Bulacan
These stamps not only showcase the architectural splendor of these sites but also emphasize their significance in shaping the Filipino nation and its cultural heritage.
Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos explains that the stamps are designed to evoke a sense of Filipino pride and serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving the country’s heritage structures. He stresses that this continuity is crucial for providing stability and a connection to the past amidst the uncertainties of modern times.
A Collectible Piece of History
PHLPost has printed 80,000 copies of the stamps, each featuring one of the eight unique designs and a 16-peso denomination. Additionally, souvenir sheets with a 55-peso denomination are available for collectors.
The stamps’ layout was created by PHLPost in-house graphic designer Ryman Dominic Albuladora, with photographs by Rolino Bucao, Jr., Rosemarie de Guzman, Godwin Hernaez, Bobby Taron, and Ruwen Verdaguer of FUNtastic Philippines, Inc. These stamps and official first-day covers can be purchased at the Philatelic Counter in Manila Central Post Office in Liwasang Bonifacio and Iloilo City Post Office.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a piece of Philippine history and celebrate the nation’s rich cultural heritage through these captivating postage stamps!
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