THE Philippine Postal Corp. (PHLPost) has released the commemorative “Year of the Rabbit” stamps to mark the celebration of the Chinese New Year.

“The celebration is a manifestation of our solidarity with our Filipino Chinese friends. For us, the Lunar New Year is an occasion to celebrate the rich heritage that both our nations have treasured,” Postmaster General Norman Fulgencio said.

The stamps, souvenir sheets and official first-day cover will be available to the public starting Wednesday, January 25.

Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. Executive Vice President Mary G. Ng said the stamps represent recognition and respect for the Filipinos and Chinese.

The Chinese Zodiac has 12 representative animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

In Chinese culture, the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity. The Rabbit is known to many as the luckiest in the zodiac. If one is born under the Year of the Rabbit, it is said that one is friendly, gentle and kind to others.

Modern Chinese Lunar Year stamps have bolder colors and designs to make them more appealing to collectors. PHLPost in-house artists Ryman Dominic Albuladora, Eunice Dabu and Agnes Rarangol designed the colorful Rabbit stamps.