TWO limited-edition postal stamps featuring Philippine bridges have been released in Singapore to commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. It is but one of many activities lined up for the year.

“We debated on a few themes but bridges seemed to be the best because it connects both countries, symbolically, and bridges is also one of the themes that is well-liked and loved by collectors,” explains Peggy Teo, Singapore Post’s assistant vice president for Philatelic.

She says it took them almost a year to complete the project, while working closely with Philpost.

One of the two Philippine bridges featured is Bamban Bridge, which links Mabalacat in Pampanga to Bamban in Tarlac. Rebuilt in 1998 after it was destroyed by the Mt. Pinatubo eruption seven years earlier, it is one of the longest bridges of its kind in the world.

This Nielsen-Lohse bridge is the first of its type in the Philippines, and one of the most modern and sleek-looking in the country. It stands out as a bold landmark in the quaint historic town of Bamban.

The second bridge featured is Marcelo Fernan Bridge, which connects Cebu and Mactan islands in Cebu City. Opened in 1991, it is named after Fernan, who died of cancer early that year.

‘Piece of history’

“Stamps feature a country’s achievements and aspirations, history, heritage, nature, culture and geography,” says Singapore Philatelic Museum’s communications manager Jocelyn Lee. “Owning the stamps is to have a piece of history.”

Two other stamps featuring Singapore bridges complete the commemorative issue. They depict the Henderson Waves, which are found along the Southern Ridges of Singapore, and Cavenagh Bridge.

Henderson Waves is the highest pedestrian bridge, standing at 36 meters above the Henderson Road.

Built in 1868 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of the Straits Settlement, Cavenagh Bridge is the oldest on the Singapore River.

SingPost, which issues 10-12 new stamp designs a year, is selling a commemorative joint cover, presentation packs, pre-cancelled First-Day Cover affixed with the complete set of stamps, and pre-cancelled First Day Cover affixed with miniature sheet. They can be ordered at SingPost’s online shopping portal vPOST, http://shop.vpost.com.sg.

Meanwhile, the Singapore Philatelic Museum is also preparing for a Philippine-themed stamp exhibit in October, “Bayanihan: Spirit of the Philippines.”

There will be interactive displays where visitors can learn about the country’s rich and diverse culture, and journey through its breathtaking natural sites.

“Visitors can also find out about the long and colorful history of the Philippines by walking on the footsteps of her national heroes. They will get to experience life as a Filipino such as the key fiestas celebrated across the country, learn to play traditional games and dress up in national costumes,” says Lee.