Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a remarkable celebration of history, faith, and the enduring legacy of scouting, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) have unveiled a one-of-a-kind philatelic exhibit at the Van Gogh Hotel in Ilocos Sur. This extraordinary display, featuring a Guinness World Record-holding stamp collection, is not just a tribute to scouting but also to the spiritual influence of the Catholic Church.
At the heart of this groundbreaking event stands Mr. Kim Robert de Leon, Secretary General of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, who holds two Guinness World Records for his unparalleled stamp collections. His vast and meticulously curated assortment includes the world’s largest collection of stamps featuring Popes, a feat officially recognized in 2022 with a staggering 2,398 stamps.
This extensive collection predominantly features Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis—two revered figures who have graced the Philippines with their presence, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s faith and history. De Leon’s dedication to philately is deeply rooted in his passion for both scouting and his commitment to the Church, making his collection a powerful testament to unity, service, and devotion.
Beyond the Papal stamps, De Leon also holds a separate Guinness title for the largest collection of scouting-themed stamps, a true reflection of his lifelong commitment to the movement. Additionally, his archives include rare Christmas and Madonna-themed stamps, further showcasing the breadth of his philatelic passion.
The exhibit, graced by distinguished guests such as Mayor Eric D. Singson, officials from BSP, and representatives from PHLPost, underscores the cultural and historical significance of stamp collecting. It serves as a powerful reminder that philately is not merely a pastime but a means of preserving national and global heritage.
Through this exhibit, visitors are taken on a journey through time, where each stamp tells a story—of faith, of leadership, and of the unwavering spirit of scouting. It is a celebration of history, a bridge between generations, and an inspiration for future collectors to see stamps as more than just paper artifacts but as treasures of the past that continue to shape the present.
As the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and PHLPost bring this unparalleled collection to light, they reinforce the value of unity and tradition, encouraging Filipinos to cherish their rich heritage through the art of philately. In a world rapidly shifting toward digitalization, this exhibit serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of tangible history—one stamp at a time.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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