The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has officially launched the 54th Universal Postal Union (UPU) International Letter Writing Competition for Young People, inviting students aged 9 to 15 years old from both public and private schools across the country to participate.
This year’s theme, “Imagine you are the ocean. Write a letter to someone explaining why and how they should take good care of you,” encourages young writers to express their thoughts on ocean conservation and environmental responsibility.
The winning entry will represent the Philippines in the global competition hosted by the UPU in Berne, Switzerland, where countries from around the world submit their best young writers’ works.
Organized annually by PHLPost under the auspices of the UPU, the competition aims to develop literacy skills while raising awareness about global sustainability challenges, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
“The competition not only enhances students’ writing abilities but also encourages them to reflect on real-world issues. This year’s theme is particularly relevant, as it urges young minds to think critically about our oceans and their role in sustaining life,” said PHLPost Acting Chief for Corporate Communications Rianne Aybil U. Penaredondo.
Aligned with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the contest inspires young participants to explore solutions to pressing environmental problems and become advocates for sustainability.
Competition Mechanics and Prizes
Students must submit an original, handwritten letter in English, not exceeding 800 words. The letter should follow proper formatting, including the sender’s address, date, recipient’s address, salutation, and signature. AI-generated content is strictly prohibited, and originality checks will be conducted on winning entries.
Entries must be submitted via Domestic Express Mail Service (DEMS) in a brown envelope addressed to:
UPU 54th International Letter Writing Competition for Young People 2025
Corporate Communications Division – Office of the Postmaster General
Philippine Postal Corporation, Manila Central Post Office Building,
Annex II Building, Magallanes Drive, Liwasang Bonifacio, Barangay 659-A, Ermita, 1000 Manila, Philippines.
Deadline for submission: March 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Submissions sent through private couriers, such as LBC, DHL, 2Go, and JRS Express, will be automatically disqualified.
Additionally, participants must register online and upload a scanned copy of their letter and a high-quality photo at PHLPost registration link (https://bit.ly/PHLPost2025LetterWriting).
Prizes and Recognition
First place will receive P25,000 in cash, while second and third place winners will receive P20,000 and P15,000, respectively. All winners will also receive medals, plaques, and an album of Philippine stamps. E-certificates will be provided to all participants via email.
The winning entry will be announced no later than March 21, 2025.
Judging Criteria
Entries will be evaluated based on:
- Relevance to the theme – 30%
- Imagination and originality – 20%
- Writing style and communication skills – 20%
- Vocabulary and language proficiency – 20%
- Youthful tone – 10%
Encouraging Young Voices for a Sustainable Future
As the Philippines remains one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, initiatives like this competition provide a platform for young Filipinos to advocate for environmental protection while honing their writing and storytelling skills.
For further details, visit www.phlpost.gov.ph or follow PHLPost on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PHLPost. Interested participants may also contact Ms. Rianne Aybil U. Penaredondo via corcom@phlpost.gov.ph.
The contest period runs from February 5 to March 9, 2025, with the national winner set to be determined by March 21, 2025.
