The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) successfully hosted the 2025 National Philatelic Exhibition (NAPEX) from April 23 to 25 at Lucky Chinatown Mall in Binondo, Manila. The three-day celebration highlighted the country’s rich heritage and honored Filipino excellence by launching new commemorative stamps. It drew the participation of key cultural and sports figures, philatelic enthusiasts, and the general public.
One of the event’s highlights was the unveiling of the Carlos Yulo Olympic Souvenir Stamp on April 24. This special issue pays tribute to gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo’s historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he claimed two gold medals in the floor exercise and vault, becoming the first Filipino and Southeast Asian athlete to achieve such a feat. The stamp is a symbol of national pride and athletic excellence, intended to inspire future generations.
On April 25, PHLPost also launched a vibrant set of stamps celebrating Philippine festivals, underscoring the country’s diverse cultural identity. The unveiling ceremony was graced by dignitaries, including Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos, NCCA Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, and representatives from Bulacan province.
This colorful collection features dynamic illustrations from some of the country’s most beloved celebrations, including the Kadayawan Festival (Davao City), Panagbenga Festival (Baguio City), Singkaban Festival (Bulacan), and Sinulog Festival (Cebu City).
Each stamp captures these cultural events’ spirit, joy, and artistry through vivid imagery and traditional costumes, highlighting the regional pride and communal unity that these festivals bring. From floral parades to religious processions, the stamp series pays tribute to the unique ways Filipinos celebrate life, faith, and tradition.
Like your unique story, each of these festivals PHLPost launched tells a unique story. The Singkaban Festival in Bulacan, celebrated with arches of bamboo and traditional artistry, honors the province’s deep-rooted love for culture and history, a celebration of art, talent, and patriotism.
The Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City, also known as the Flower Festival, blossoms with the beauty of nature and the creativity of the Cordilleran people. It is a tribute to Baguio’s recovery and the natural charm of the highlands.
Kadayawan Festival in Davao City is a thanksgiving celebration that showcases the wealth of the region’s harvest and the rich cultural tapestry of its 11 indigenous tribes. It is a true symbol of unity in diversity.
The Sinulog Festival in Cebu City brings together spirituality and celebration. With the beat of drums and dance in honor of the Sto. Niño is a powerful expression of faith and Filipino devotion passed down through generations.
Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos said, “It is a great honor to celebrate these festivals not only in parades and performances but also in our unique way, through commemorative stamps and philatelic frames that preserve these moments in time and share their stories across the country and around the world.”
The stamps were unveiled by Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos, Dr. Vinaya Prakash Singh, Secretary-General, Asian-Pacific Postal Union, Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Ms. Norico M Mizoguchi, General Manager, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Megaworld Lifestyle and two- time Olympic Gold Medalist Carlos Edriel Yulo.
