The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has unveiled its special 2024 Christmas Stamps featuring “Simbang Gabi sa Ilog Pasig” (Christmas Dawn Masses along Pasig River), which is currently the world’s longest postage stamp and a heartfelt tribute to the cherished Filipino Catholic tradition of Simbang Gabi.

Measuring at 234mm in length, this artistic masterpiece by Gelo Andres of Renacimiento Manila celebrates the holiday spirit by featuring the iconic churches along the historic Pasig River.

The churches include Binondo Church, Quiapo Church, Manila Cathedral Church, Sta. Ana Church, San Felipe Neri Church, San Pedro Macati Church, Guadalupe Church, Pasig Church and Antipolo Church.

PHLPost postmaster general Luis D. Carlos and Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna led the ceremonial unveiling of the Christmas stamps along with other government officials.

Lacuna said that the stamps will help raise awareness of cultural and historical treasures along the Pasig River, which is now being rehabilitated and restored as an Esplanade or Promenade Park.

Each stamp beautifully reflects the timeless elegance of these sacred landmarks while honoring the deep faith and enduring hope that unite Filipino communities.

Distinguished as the world’s longest usable stamp ever issued, this release celebrates the Philippine reputation for having the world’s longest Christmas season, beginning in September all the way to the Feast of the Three Kings in January.

The 2024 Christmas Stamp has a dimension of 234mm x 40mm with special embellishments featuring four color processes plus blue iridescent ink on the river and suprametal-multilevel embossing on the churches.

“It is more than a celebration of heritage — but also an invitation to rekindle our shared values of unity and devotion during the most joyous season of the year,” Carlos said.

“As the vibrant hues of dawn light up the Pasig River and its surroundings, so does this stamp illuminate the essence of Christmas: Love, Joy, Peace, and Hope,” he added.

The Pasig River holds a rich historical significance, serving as a vital waterway before and during the Spanish colonial period. It played a crucial role as a major transportation route for trade and commerce, connecting Manila Bay and Laguna de Bay.

Meantime, the iconic Manila Central Post Office Building — which is continuously undergoing rehabilitation — was historically built along the Pasig River to receive mail and other packages transported through the river.