By Brian Jules Campued
The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has issued the “country’s longest postage stamp to date” in celebration of the 126th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence to set a new Guinness World Record.
Titled “Philippines: First Republic in Asia”, the sheetlet strip of three stamps measures 200 mm x 35 mm and is said to be the first of its kind issued by PHLPost.
According to PHLPost, the stamp illustrates the Philippines’ journey to nationhood from the historic proclamation of independence on June 12, 1898 to the declaration of the first Philippine Republic in 1899. The stamp commemorates the following events in Philippine history:
- Declaration of Philippine Independence in 1898
- Arrival of President Emilio Aguinaldo in Malolos, Bulacan
- Inauguration of the first Philippine Republic at the Barasoain Church in 1899
- Philippine-American War
- Aguinaldo’s odyssey in northern Luzon
- Apolinario Mabini in Pangasinan
- Aguinaldo’s capture in Isabela
Also inside the stamps are the photos of the Philippine Revolutionary Government Postage Stamps, as well as the Philippine Revolutionary Government Postage and Telegraph Registration Stamps issued during the said era.
“PHLPost immortalized this legacy with a unique stamp underscoring the Philippines as a beacon of liberty, democracy, and republicanism in Asia,” the Post Office said.
PHLPost added that “the stamps continue to be the source of inspiration, courage, and patriotism among Filipinos” as their beauty and significance also fascinate collectors.
Designed by artist Roderick Macutay, PHLPost said at least 9,000 pieces of the commemorative stamp were printed and sold at the Manila Central Post Office in Lawton, Manila starting Wednesday for P125 each. – iro
