President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named 10 new National Artists in recognition of their significant contributions to the arts in literature, visual arts, architecture, dance, design, film, theater, as well as music.
This was following the issuance of Proclamation 1414 on September 1 naming the National Artists.
They are:
• Nicanor Tiongson and Gregorio Brillantes for Literature;
• Imelda Cajipe Endaya and Nunelucio Alvarado for Visual Arts;
• Gabriel Formoso for Architecture;
• Rafael “Nonoy” Froilan for Dance;
• Maria Beatriz “Patis” Tesoro for Design;
• Armando “Bing” Lao for Film and Broadcast Arts;
• Teodoro Hilado for Theater; and
• Alfredo S. Buenaventura for Music.
Formoso, Brillantes, Lao, and Hilado were conferred the distinction posthumously.
The Order of National Artists is the highest national recognition for Filipinos with significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts and letters.
The President confers the recognition as recommended by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
National Artists are conferred the title and rank of National Artist. They also receive a gold-plated medallion minted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, a citation, and a Grand Collar.
Living National Artists also receive a minimum cash award of P 200,000, a P 50,000 lifetime monthly stipend, medical and hospitalization benefits of up to PHP750,000 per year and life insurance coverage through the Government Service Insurance System or private insurers. They are also allotted a place of honor in state functions, national commemorations, and cultural presentations.
Upon their demise, they are accorded a State Funeral with arrangements and expenses shouldered by the government.