Manila: The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has issued a special commemorative stamp honoring His Holiness Pope Leo XIV (Robert Francis Prevost), following his historic election as the 268th Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PHLPost said the stamp pays tribute to Pope Leo XIV's spiritual leadership and advocacy for compassion, inclusivity, and global unity-values that resonate strongly with the Filipino faithful. Pope Leo XIV shares a personal connection with the Philippines, having previously served as a missionary in Cebu and other parts of the country.

The release underscores its ongoing mission to preserve history, culture, and faith through philately, or the art of stamp collecting, the PHLPost said. The stamp design features a portrait of Pope Leo XIV alongside symbolic imagery associated with his papacy.

The PHLPost stated that papal stamps are often prized by collectors for their artistic value, limited print runs, and connection to key moments in Church history. A total of 20,000 copies of the stamp have been printed, each priced at PHP17. A matching First Day Cover is also available for collectors.

Items can be purchased at the Postshop, located at the Manila Central Post Office Compound, Annex I Building, Liwasang Bonifacio. The public is encouraged to acquire the commemorative issue, which is both a collector's item and a tribute to the new pontiff's enduring bond with the Philippines.