Living legends: 10 Filipino actors, athletes, and scientists honored with their own Post Office stamp
Ten outstanding Filipinos in the field of art, sports, and science were immortalized by the Philippine Post Office in their own stamps for dedicating their talents to their fellow Pinoys.
According to the Post Office, these individuals were chosen to inspire Filipinos and other nationalities that will see the country's stamps. "We are proud of their accomplishments," Postmaster General Norman N. Fulgencio said.
Titled the "Living Legends - Outstanding Filipinos: Series I," the stamps line follows the theme "Salamat: Pagpupugay sa mga Alamat." The stamps themselves feature photos of the artists, athletes, and scientists illustrated in pop art style.
Here are the local talent they commemorated.
Philippine Cinema
Nora Aunor
Regarded as Philippine cinema's "Superstar" and the "People's National Artist," Aunor starred in critically acclaimed films Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos (1976), Himala (1982), and Bona (1980). She received multiple awards from FAMAS, Gawad Urian, Metro Manila Film Festival, and more.
Gloria Romero
This veteran actress starred in Tanging Yaman (2000), Nagbabagang Luha (1988), and Dalagang Ilocana (1955). Romero has also appeared on many TV shows, including Palibhasa Lalake, Richard Loves Lucy, May Bukas Pa, and more.
Rosa Rosal
Another FAMAS award-winning Filipina actress, Rosa Rosal is renowned for being the "original femme fatale of Philippine cinema." The now 93-year-old actress starred in Fort Santiago (1946), Kamagong (1947), Badjao (1956), Sonny Boy (1955), Dagohoy (1953), and more.
Susan Roces
Before she was the star of RiteMED's catchy jingle, Susan Roces acted in multiple local films and TV series, including FPJ's Ang Probinsyano. The 60s and 70s' "Queen of Philippine Cinema" married fellow actor Fernando Poe Jr.
Vilma Santos
The current Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives is a veteran in the acting game, debuting in her first film as a child. Later in life, Vilma Santos starred in Dama de Noche and the Darna movie series, gaining her the title of "Star for All Seasons."
Art
Romulo Galicano
Known for his technically academic and philosophical approach, Galicano's work includes portraits, landscapes, and still life—all of which are marked by signature lines.
Sports
Olivia "Bong" Coo
The most decorated Filipino athlete—regardless of gender—in any sport, Bong Coo is a four-time bowling World Champion. She's so decorated, she became the first Filipino athlete to be featured in the Guinness Book of World Records for her accolades.
Currently, Coo is serving as the Chairwoman of the Women in Sports Commission of the Philippine Olympic Committee since February 2021.
"El Presidente" Ramon Fernandez
This Filipino basketball legend and current commissioner of the Philippine Sports Commission won four PBA Most Valuable Player awards and 19 conference cups during his prime. Standing at 6'5, Fernandez played for five teams throughout his career, including Toyota, Manila Beer, Tanduay, Purefoods, and San Miguel.
Science
Dr. Baldomero Olivera
This Filipino chemist discovered many of the cone snail toxins important for neuroscience. Olivera also first characterized E.coli DNA ligase, a key enzyme of DNA replication and repair.
Dr. Ernesto O. Domingo
A professor emeritus at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, Domingo specializes in hepatology and gastroenterology. This National Scientist of the Philippines fought to make the hepatitis vaccine mandatory and accessible for all Filipinos.
