1972 BANGSA MORO REBEL STAMP

Description: In 1972, Philippine rebels from the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front, Philippine muslims) who were fighting for an own muslim state in the Philippines, overprinted a number of stamps with “Bangsa Moro” which translates “Moro nation”. The overprinted stamps were used between 1972 and about 1976 as propaganda to support their aims. Here is one of these overprinted stamps. It is unused but without gum. A short explanation about the overprints is included.

Comments: 1971 Surcharged issue overprinted "BANGSA MORO" in black. Reported to be the handiwork of Rueben Canoy. Overprint by letterpress by the Master Press, Liku-an, Cagayan de Oro City. Reported quantity: 350 pieces. I am told that this stamp first appeared in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, in April 1972, together with the Bansa Moro currency, passport, residence certificate and a 10c and 1p Documentary Stamp.  The above stamp exist on a local circulating cover, postmarked Oct 1972, Marawi City, Lanao de Sur (philatelic as same sender and addressee, with crudely made triangular postmark).

Five other Republic issues were reported to have been overprinted. To date I have seen the a 1964 6c Rizal blue and the same stamp surcharged to 4c (1967 issue).

I have relatives residing near Liku-an, Cagayan de Oro City and not one recall the existence of the Master Press in the area. However a Oro Press did exist in the said location. There are other reports surrounding this issue. Very difficult to determine which is true.