PHLPost launches UPU int’l letter writing contest, encourages youth to share pandemic experiences

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) and the Universal Postal Union (UPU) have launched the 50th International Letter Writing Competition which focuses on children’s experiences amid the pandemic.

With the theme “Write a letter to a family member about your experience of COVID-19,” the contest aims to “promote better understanding [of] the world.”

“The contest hopes to develop young student skills in composition and fosters their enjoyment in letter writing,” said PHLPost in a statement.

“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,” it added.

The competition is open to Filipino students aged 15 and below with original letters handwritten in English. It should not exceed 1,000 words in length.

“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 2x2 colored digital ID picture (300 dpi minimum) must be attached,” PHLPost said.

The 1st prize winner will receive P15,000 and will automatically qualify for the UPU International Letter Writing Competition to be held in Switzerland.

The 2nd and 3rd prize winners, meanwhile, will receive P10,000 and P5,000, respectively.

Local entries must reach PHLPost (via post office) on April 2. The selection of semi-finalists will be done on or before April 12, 2021.

Interested individuals may contact Ms. Joy Edralin-Cacho, PHLPost special project officer of the Postshop, Philately and Museum Division, at 8527-01-32, or go to their website. www.phlpost.gov.ph. – Franchesca Viernes/RC, GMA News