THE WORKS of an Asian Studies alumnus are now circulating through train stations, commemorative stamps and even legal tender as the Philippines commemorates the 125th anniversary of the Supreme Court (SC).
History instructor and cultural worker John Paul “Rancho” Arcilla designed several commemorative materials for the high court’s anniversary, including beep cards and the reverse side of a special coin issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
Arcilla, who earned his bachelor’s degree in Asian Studies from UST in 2014, described the projects as a rare opportunity to contribute to symbols that would become part of the country’s public memory.
“It’s not everyday one gets to mark stamps and legal tender,” Arcilla said in a Facebook post announcing his involvement in the anniversary projects.
The Supreme Court formally launched the commemorative coin, banknote and stamps on June 10 as part of its anniversary celebration, which carried the theme “SC: 125 Years of Tradition and Innovation.” According to the high court, Arcilla designed the reverse side of the commemorative coin and all four anniversary stamp designs issued through the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost).
The commemorative coin, minted in Nordic gold and carrying a face value of P125, features the anniversary logo on its reverse side. The coin symbolizes the judiciary’s enduring role in upholding justice and democratic institutions, according to the high court.
Arcilla also designed commemorative stamps depicting key landmarks and figures in the high court’s history, including it’s Padre Faura complex, Baguio building and Chief Justice Cayetano Arellano.
Apart from the stamp and coin, Arcilla’s digital artwork was also selected for the Supreme Court’s commemorative beep cards unveiled during the anniversary activities.
In another Facebook post, Arcilla said the artwork titled “SC Padre Faura Community” portrayed the Supreme Court complex as viewed from the LRT line and reflected the institution’s “enduring role in Philippine democracy.” The commemorative cards are expected to be released to the public through MRT and LRT stations this month.
Before entering the academe and the judiciary, Arcilla worked in heritage and cultural institutions. He previously served as head of archives and central records of the Intramuros Administration and as chair of its technical committee on architectural standards.
He is currently an information officer V at the Supreme Court Office of the Spokesperson while pursuing a doctorate in Philippine studies at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman.
Arcilla also teaches history courses at UST and has completed a master’s degree in Philippine Studies at UP Diliman in 2021.
The Supreme Court anniversary projects were initiated by the Office of the Spokesperson in collaboration with the BSP and PHLPost. F
