Philippines postage stamps year 1981 Visit Pope John Paul

The Philippines issued a special set of stamps in 1981 to commemorate the pastoral visit of Pope John Paul II to the country from February 17 to 22, 1981. These stamps are known as the “Pope John Paul II Pastoral Visit” series and are notable for their large and brightly colored designs, with each stamp measuring approximately 6×4 cm. A souvenir sheet measuring about 7.5×9 cm was also produced.

The original stamps were dated 1980 but had to be destroyed and reprinted with the 1981 date due to the postponement of the actual papal visit from 1980 to 1981. Some 1980-dated stamps were leaked, making them quite rare collectors’ items. The official issue date for the 1981 series was February 17, 1981, coinciding with the Pope’s arrival in Manila.

Additionally, various commemorative cachets were released postmarked with cities the Pope visited, including Manila, Cebu City, Bacolod City, Davao City, Iloilo City, Legaspi City, Bataan, and Baguio City.

This stamp series is significant both for its religious and historical importance and remains a prized collectible among Philippine philatelists.