THE PHILIPPINE Postal Service (PHLPost) released this week collectible special-edition stamps portraying eight notable and historic canines that left a “paw print” on Philippine history.

On Monday, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for a “3-day Stamp Exhibit” which was opened to the public. The display commemorated the organization’s 256th anniversary as well as the National Stamp Collecting Month.

“As a symbol of Filipino resiliency, we will not forget how this structure has stood through war and remains as proof of Manila’s historic past,” said Postmaster General Luis Carlos. 

“The iconic Post Office building, which serves as the headquarters of the Philippine Postal Corporation has a much significant role in the country’s history and culture,” he said.

PHLPost has plenty for animals and history enthusiasts to enjoy. It also unveiled the “Dogs in Philippine History Special Stamps” series at the Music Hall of the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. 

The exhibition of the historic dog stamps was headed by Victorino Manalo, chair of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). PHLPost said in a statement (link) that “the stamps awaken our understanding and treatment of dogs as it unfolds with the history of our country.”

The “Dogs in Philippine History Special Stamps” set featured eight stamps depicting nine dogs from various periods of time. These are the loving four-legged friends honored on stamps:

· Usman, national hero Jose Rizal’s pet in Calamba, Laguna

· Saver, a bright iconic Aspin that was featured in television and films from the 1990s to the early 2000s

· Moltke and Bravo, the Dalmatians of Filipino writer Marcelo H. del Pilar

· Tigre, the dog of Pampanga revolutionary governor Tiburcio Hilario

· Castelar, the stray Aspin adopted by an American soldier William Baker 

· Torpe, the iconic white Aspin of Don Tranquilo Ruiz

· Smoky, a female Yorkshire Terrier who was hailed as the hero of Lingayen, Pangasinan

· Kabang, a female Aspin-crossed German Shepherd who reportedly saved two kids in Zamboanga City, resulting in the loss of her snout

“These historic dogs have left their paw prints on different chapters of our history,” added Carlos. “Their stories are a testament to the deep connection between humans and dogs, showcasing bravery and loyalty and the unique roles these furry friends have played in our lives.”

The “Dogs in Philippine History Special Stamps” were inspired by Ian Christopher B. Alfonso’s book “Dogs in Philippine History.”

While the stamps were available for purchase at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia only until Wednesday, November 15, PHLPost outlets will begin selling them “soon,” according to a post on the Dogs in Philippine History official Facebook page.