ASEAN delegates to get Phl postcards, commemorative stamps

The Philippines is bringing back the charm of traditional mail for the 49th ASEAN Summit, offering foreign delegates and international journalists an opportunity to send Philippine-themed postcards and commemorative stamps to destinations around the world.

The initiative, jointly undertaken by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost), will make postal services available at the International Media Center (IMC) at the World Trade Center in Pasay City during the November 15–17 summit.

The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay and PHLPost Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer Maximo Sta. Maria III in Makati City on Nov. 4.

A special commemorative stamp bearing the Philippine ASEAN Chairship 2026 logo was unveiled during the ceremony, alongside official Philippine tourism postcards featuring the country’s destinations and cultural heritage.

Under the arrangement, delegates can purchase postcards and stamps and send their correspondence directly from the media center to recipients anywhere in the world.

Angara-Mathay said the initiative would allow international visitors to bring home not only memories of the summit but also stories reflecting the Philippines’ destinations, traditions and cultural identity.

Sta. Maria, meanwhile, said the project offers an opportunity to highlight the continuing relevance of postal services despite the growing dominance of digital communication.

He noted that postcards and stamps provide tangible reminders of travel experiences while creating connections among people, places and cultures.

The initiative also forms part of the government’s broader efforts to showcase Filipino heritage and strengthen the country’s tourism presence as it hosts regional leaders and thousands of international delegates.