This Philippine postage stamp was issued in 1988 to commemorate the bicentennial of Francisco Balagtas (1788–1988), one of the nation’s most revered literary figures. Known as the “Prince of Tagalog Poets,” Balagtas authored the epic Florante at Laura, a masterpiece of Philippine literature. The design features a minimalist green profile silhouette of Balagtas crowned with laurel leaves, framed in brown with the inscription BALAGTAS BICENTENNIAL 1788–1988. The word PILIPINAS and the denomination of ₱1.00 appear in green, representing national pride and cultural reverence. This issue celebrates the enduring legacy of Filipino poetry and nationalism.