Nakapahimo naba mo ug stamp?
The art of stampmaking is a craft still seen in the streets of modern-day Colon. The steady hand work and precise carvings on rubber tell a story that has lived for decades.
Lined up across the street of the old Vision Theater, stamp makers remain a go-to for several clients and regulars. Lawyers, teachers, and companies looking for quality and affordable stamps know where and who to go to. For long-time stampmakers Rolando and his son Ronaldo, stamp-making is a livelihood and a skill learned across generations.
“Lando” recalls the early days where the tartanilla ruled the streets of Colon as his craft had its early start by Magallanes in the 1970s. He used to assist older stampmakers until he started a stall of his own after learning from his elders. Over the years, he connected with many customers-turned-regulars through word of mouth referrals and consistent quality.
Many of his regular customers include attorneys, elementary and highschool teachers, and businesses. Despite traction varying on different seasons, Lando says that his customers remember him and his stall when they need the job done. At affordable prices starting at 100 for basic name stamps, he remains committed in the craft that he sustained for over 50 years.
Inspired by his father’s work, Ronaldo learned stampmaking from watching Lando as he worked. He soon followed in his father’s footsteps and started a stall of his own near his dad at Colon.
“Nald” has been making stamps for the past 22 years and caters to both individuals and businesses. His recent projects include stamps for business packages and receipts. As a father of 5, every stamp is created with his family as his motivation. He also sells small finished stamps, varying in fun designs for teachers and parents ready to use.
Stampmaking in the Modern Age
The rise of modern printing technology has reshaped the stampmaking industry as machines makes stamps in just minutes.
For small stalls like theirs, learning to maintain craftsmanship, personal service, and accurate quality in creating custom designs has been their edge against machine work. Lando takes pride in his work, saying they last years before fully wearing out for his clients.
Despite competition from bigger manufacturers, many customers continue to return to the quality, affordability, and reliability that only hand-crafted stamps by stampmakers like Rolando and Ronaldo can offer. Knowing the hardwork behind each stamp makes every peso worth it.
Whether the stamp is for personal or business use, the craft of stampmaking remains relevant to many in Cebu. Open from early mornings to late afternoon, the stampmakers are available on weekdays and select weekends by Colon street near the Metro.
Photos by Christie Mae Sato and Andrie Gabutan - UP Cebu, PBB Interns
Comments