The subject of U.S. #1096, Ramon Magsaysay, had died in a plane crash just five months before he was featured on a U.S. stamp. Magsaysay was the seventh President of the Philippines, which had been a U.S. Territory early in the 20th century. In 1935, the Philippines were granted Commonwealth status and began the process leading to independence in 1946. Magsaysay served as Defense Secretary prior to his election as president in 1953. Magsaysay’s administration was noted for its freedom from corruption. Under his direction, the Philippines joined the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization.