QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Philippine Postal Corporation (Post Office) will soon release a stamp in honor of the extraordinary and historic achievement made by Hidilyn Diaz, the first Filipino Olympic Gold Medalist.

“It is our mandate and protocol to immediately issue a stamp in honor of personalities who excelled in sports on in any other arena,” Postmaster General Norman Fulgencio said.

“Hidilyn, your fete made us all proud. The Philippines’ long wait for its “First Olympic Gold Stamp” since we joined the Olympics in 1924 finally happened. You made history for the Philippines, the sports world and the Philippine Post Office.”

Fulgencio added that right after Hidilyn won in the event, he directed PHLPost’s creative to start designing the first Olympic Gold Stamp and even shared the good news to Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

“The Post Office wanted the public to experience the victory and excitement of this historic win and even inspire young people to excel in their chosen sports following the footsteps of our own Filipino pride, Ms. Hidilyn Diaz. This is our own way of honoring and acknowledging their great effort and contribution to society.”

The Post Office ensures that Filipinos who brought pride and honor to the country will never be forgotten and their greatness will forever be imprinted in the hearts and minds of our countrymen through the postage stamps.

Postage stamps have been used around the world to commemorate, in miniature, significant events and people. The value of stamps increased with time, turning it into an important part of a country’s identity.

“It would be nice to showcase Filipinos who greatly contributed to the joy, inspiration and pride of the nation,” Postmaster General Fulgencio explained.

Meanwhile, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte also conveyed his warmest congratulations to Hidilyn Diaz Wednesday evening.

Pres. Duterte said her achievement is the achievement of the Philippine nation. He also thanked Diaz for her years of dedication and sacrifice.

The President also said that Diaz will be awarded with the Presidential Medal of Merit, a fully-furnished house and lot in Zamboanga City and additional cash incentive. (PHLPOST/PIA-NCR)