past, present and post stamps

heritage walk, introduction to philately and a wonderful Sunday afternoon – package in one

the Postal Heritage Walking Tour*, organize by the Filipinas Stamp Collectors’ Club (FSCC), is an opportunity to revisit the glory (and infamous) past of Metro Manila through our rich postal history

first stop is the Liwasang Bonifacio, a well-known plaza where rallies and public assemblies are held

the plaza was first named after the US military general Henry Lawton. Lawton, who gained recognition within the US Army ranks because of his successful campaign that led to the surrender of Apache leader Geronimo, was killed in Rizal by Filipino soldiers under the command of Lecerio Geronimo. well, the irony of life

another major stop is the Manila Central Postal Office, one of the dominating landmarks in Manila City

this Neo Classical Style building was destroyed during the American bombing of Manila in 1946 and was rebuilt after the war. the building was designed by Ralph Doane, Tomas Mapua and Juan M. de Guzman Arellano

meanwhile, the Post Library and Museum showcases commemorative stamps, postal relics, old mailboxes, paintings, etc . FSSC lectures and meetings as well as weekend public auction of anik-anik are conducted in this area

another highlight of this unique heritage walk is the visit to the Manila Metropolitan Theater or MET. this Art Deco Style Building, which was also designed by Juan M. de Guzman Arellano, was considered by some as “moderne”. still, MET became an icon of Philippine art and culture and hosted world-class plays, operas and events of the rich and famous

today, it looks like a war-torn building while the elements continue to fast track its decaying state. the ghostly tour inside will bring awe, sadness and chills (especially if you have six sense)

efforts are being done to revive MET's former glory but it will be a very, very expensive endeavor

other points of interest of the walk:

Aduana Building, the former Custom House during the Spanish occupation

Plaza Mexico, the port during the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade

National Press Club Building

and more – Manila Cathedral, Plaza Roma, monument of Gracia Lopez Jeana, monument of Queen Isabela II, Bahay Tsinoy, Arroceros Park, Mehan Garden, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Jones Bridge and Intramuros.

the Postal Heritage Walking Tour is held every 3^rd Sunday of the month. this free guided tour caters students, cultural hoopers, philatelists and interested individuals. for reservation, contact Mr. Lawrence Chan at 0919-3901671 or email at l_rence_2003@yahoo.com