‘Imprints of history’: PhilPost holds heroes stamps exhibits

MANILA, Philippines – In celebration of the 118th Philippine Independence Day, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) holds exhibits to reintroduce stamps to the public and share moments from history to ignite a sense of Filipino identity.

The “PhilPost Heroes and Legends Stamp Exhibit” at SM City Manila serves as a mini history lesson with stamps celebrating defining moments of Philippine history – from the founding of the Katipunan Movement, the EDSA People Power Revolution, up to the recent win of Pia Wurtzbach in Miss Universe 2015.

There is also a wall featuring “Great Filipinos” that contributed to Filipino nationalism in different time periods, including Jose Yulo, who served as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court during the Japanese Occupation; Josefa L. Escoda, a women’s rights advocate and the founder of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines; and Elisa R. Ochoa, the first woman elected to the Philippine Congress, among other Filipino pioneers.

In SM San Lazaro, a large photo wall is mounted at the activity center with displays of well-known historical places such as Rizal Park and Intramuros, and personalities including Miss World Megan Young and Pope Francis.

In both exhibits, stamps and other memorabilia like old bills and coins are being sold. This caters not only to collectors but also to those who are in a constant pursuit of historic nostalgia.

‘Igniting a flame’

For many, stamps are a thing of the past – something that people collect and put on display but not really use anymore. With more people opting for instant forms of communication such as texting and social media, the practice of mailing letters clearly has been on a continuous decline.

This is what PhilPost is trying to change with their exhibit. 

Getting a big audience is not really the aim of the exhibit, according to PhilPost. Small groups of people and individuals visiting due to plain curiosity is already a good sign that the public is interested in learning more about the country’s history.

According to PhilPost, small acts such as the stamp exhibit and the photo wall can make a difference in reigniting the flame of nationalism in Filipinos, amid changes in the government and foreign relations.

The stamp exhibit at SM City Manila and the photo wall at SM San Lazaro are on display until June 16. Public viewing is free. – Rappler.com

Renzo Acosta is a Rappler intern.