26 April 2006 – Ambassador Susan O. Castrence of the Philippine Embassy in Seoul, Republic of Korea reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that eight-year old Lea Anne R. Rulloda won the top prize (youth category) in the 2006 International Postage Stamp Design Contest sponsored by the South Korean Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC), besting 1,679 other entries worldwide.

"That another Filipino has been recognized for her skills adds and testifies to the growing respect of the international community for Filipino artistry, as well as the global, dynamic outlook that has become inherent to many Filipinos. Lea Anne's accomplishment, at such a very young age, is indeed cause for celebration and pride," Ambassador Castrence said.

The online competition, whose panel of judges comprised government officials and artists, was unveiled last year under the theme "A Ubiquitous World."  The results of the contest were announced last November.

In a ceremony at the MIC on 24 April 2006 commemorating South Korea's Information and Communication Day, newly appointed Minister Rho Jun-hyong presented the stamps to Ambassador Castrence, who expressed pride in the child prodigy's achievement.

The stamp, which depicts a globe linked by a computer, began circulation in South Korea on 21 April 2006.

Lea Anne is a native of Bacoor, Cavite and a student in Sta. Cruz, Manila. Besides Lea Anne, 18-year-old Jessy L. Salas of the Technological University of the Philippines received an Honorable Mention for his design in the same category.  END