MANILA – Malacañang announced on Tuesday the names of those who will receive the National Artist awards in the Palace.
Leading the pack was Francisco Mañosa, who was initially proclaimed National Artist in 2009 by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The award was eventually withdrawn by the Supreme Court because it was given illegally.
Mañosa is known as the architect behind the Coconut Palace, the EDSA Shrine, and the world-renowned Amanpulo and Pearl Farm resorts, among others.
Also named National Artist is Kidlat Tahimik, dubbed the “Father of Filipino Independent Cinema.” Some of his notable films include “Perfumed Nightmare” and “Balikbayan #1: Memories of Overdevelopment Redux III.”
Ramon Muzones and Resil Mojares were both proclaimed National Artists for Literature. Both are known for their literary works on history and society, having received several awards.
The National Artist for Visual Arts award was posthumously conferred on renowned illustrator Larry Alcala, known to many for his cartoon series “Slice of Life.”
Amelia Lapeña Bonifacio, dubbed the “Grand Dame of Southeast Asian Children’s Theater,” was proclaimed National Artist for Theater.
Rounding out the list was Ryan Cayabyab, who has earned multiple accolades as a composer, musical director, and conductor.
They will be officially recognized as National Artists in a ceremony in Malacañang on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, weavers Estelita Bantilan of Sarangani, Ambalang Ausalin of Basilan and Yabing Dulo of South Cotabato will be given the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan award.
Actress Nora Aunor was nominated for National Artist for Film but was not among those who will receive the award.
The National Artist award is the highest national recognition given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.
Jointly administered by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the award is conferred by the president upon the recommendation of both institutions.
Members of the Order of National Artist are given stipends and other benefits, including grants for artistic projects. (ABS-CBN News)
