PHLPost unveils world’s longest stamp

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) unveiled its special 2024 Christmas stamps, featuring Simbang Gabi sa Ilog Pasig (Christmas Dawn Masses along Pasig River), during the Manila Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Kartilya ng Katipunan (City Hall Park) on Friday, 29 November.

Measuring 234mm in length, the stamp, designed by Gelo Andres of Renacimiento Manila, is recognized as the world’s longest postage stamp. It honors the Filipino Catholic tradition of Simbang Gabi, featuring churches along the historic Pasig River.

The stamp showcases the Binondo, Quiapo, Manila Cathedral, Sta. Ana, San Felipe Neri, San Pedro Macati, Guadalupe, Pasig, and Antipolo churches. PHLPost Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos and Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna led the unveiling, which coincided with the city’s Christmas Tree Lighting.

This stamp aims to raise awareness of the cultural and historical significance of landmarks along the Pasig River, now being rehabilitated as a Promenade Park.

With a size of 234mm x 40mm, the stamp features four-color printing, blue iridescent ink on the river, and suprametal-multilevel embossing on the churches.

“It is more than a celebration of heritage—it is an invitation to rekindle our shared values of unity and devotion during the most joyous season of the year,” PMG Carlos said. “As the vibrant hues of dawn light up the Pasig River, so does this stamp illuminate the essence of Christmas: Love, Joy, Peace, and Hope.”

The Pasig River holds significant historical value, having served as a major transportation route during the Spanish colonial period. The Manila Central Post Office, still under rehabilitation, was built along the river to facilitate mail delivery.

PHLPost recently celebrated National Stamp Collecting Month, promoting the hobby and encouraging young people to rediscover letter writing.