ASEAN postal leaders meet in Manila, launch commemorative stamp series featuring regional fruits

MANILA — Postal officials from Southeast Asia and several partner countries gathered in Manila this week to discuss ways to strengthen cross-border logistics and e-commerce services, as the Philippines hosted key regional postal meetings.

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) hosted the 32nd ASEAN Postal Business Meeting (APBM) and the ASEANPOST++ Meeting from October 5 to 7 at a hotel in Pasay City, bringing together postal organizations from ASEAN member states and partners from Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, and South Korea.

Among the issues discussed during the meetings were initiatives aimed at improving cross-border e-commerce, logistics operations, and business opportunities among postal operators across the region.

Delegates also tackled possible collaborations involving customs clearance and last-mile delivery services, as well as measures intended to make cross-border product returns more convenient for businesses and consumers.

Postal leaders likewise exchanged ideas on maximizing the use of postal facilities and infrastructure for logistics and micro-fulfillment operations, while discussions on technology and sustainability formed part of the agenda.

On the sidelines of the meetings, ASEAN postal leaders unveiled the ASEAN Fruits 2026 commemorative stamp collection, which features a fruit representing each member-state of the regional bloc.

Leading the unveiling were Budget Secretary Kim Robert de Leon and Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony.

The special stamp series showcases fruits identified with each ASEAN country, including the Philippines’ Carabao mango, highlighting the region’s agricultural heritage and cultural diversity.

“Each stamp tells a story, not only of a nation’s treasured fruit, but of the friendship and partnership that unite ASEAN,” Postmaster General Maximo Sta. Maria III said.

PHLPost said the commemorative stamps celebrate Southeast Asia’s biodiversity while underscoring the role of philately in fostering connections among people and cultures across borders.

The state-run postal corporation said hosting the regional meetings reflects continuing efforts among postal administrations to build a more connected, efficient, and commercially responsive postal network in Southeast Asia.