March 28, 2024

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) and the Universal Postal Union (UPU) based in Berne, Switzerland recently launched the 50th International Letter Writing Competition 2021 for the youth to promote better understanding around the world through the post offices, especially during this time of Covid-19 pandemic.
The competition will focus on the theme, “Write a letter to a family member about your experience of Covid-19”.
The UPU, a specialized agency of the United Nations, says that the entire generation of children has tragically fallen to the pandemic.
The competition is an opportunity for children around the world to write about their experiences in these momentous months, and to remind everyone why literacy is very important for a child’s future.
PHLPost acknowledges the importance of family’s wellbeing by keeping each other connected during this difficult period.
The first prize entry on the national level will automatically qualify for the UPU International Letter Writing Competition to be held in Switzerland.
PHLPost said all elementary and high school students in public and private school nationwide who are Filipino citizens and aged 15 years old and below are qualified to join the contest.
Compositions must be recent, unpublished, and original letters in English, handwritten, and adhere strictly to the theme and must not exceed 1,000 words.   
On a separate sheet of paper, the participant must indicate the number of words of the letter composition, complete name and address, gender, age and date of birth, name of school and address, grade level, and contact numbers. A 2×2 colored digital ID picture (300 dpi minimum) must be attached.
Entries sent through private couriers shall be automatically disqualified.
The contest hopes to develop young student skills in composition and fosters their enjoyment in letter writing. It is also an excellent way of making young people aware of the important role postal services play in society – a role that has become even more noteworthy during the global pandemic.
The first prize winner will receive P15,000; second prize, P10,000; and third prize, P5,000, plus other recognitions.
For more information on the contest, call Joy Edralin-Cacho, PHLPost special project officer of the Postshop, Philately and Museum Division, at 8527-01-32., or log on to www.phlpost.gov.ph.
Local entries must reach PHLPost (via post office) on April 2. The selection of semi-finalists will be done on or before April 12. – Press release