Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday urged Filipinos, particularly the younger generation, to actively engage in preserving the nation’s cultural heritage, emphasizing that it is a crucial national duty linked to the survival of the Filipino identity. ‘Kilalanin natin at ipagmalaki natin ang sariling atin (Let us honor and be proud of our own),’ Marcos stated at the 2023 Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) Conferment Ceremony at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila. He highlighted the importance of supporting the continuation of the priceless legacies passed down by cultural masters, stating that these traditions hold the essence of the national identity.
According to Philippines News Agency, the event, part of National Heritage Month, celebrated nine new National Living Treasures – Filipino traditional artists dedicated to preserving indigenous practices in their communities. The honorees represent various regions, from Ilocano oral poets in the north to T’boli weavers and Sama dancers in the south. The GAMABA, established through Republic Act 7355, acknowledges Filipino traditional artists who demonstrate excellence and commitment to their craft, ensuring the transmission of indigenous cultural traditions across generations.
Among the GAMABA awardees, Adelita Bagcal from Ilocos Norte and Rosie Sula from South Cotabato were recognized for preserving oral tradition and chanting, keeping ancestral voices alive through storytelling. Abina Coguit of Agusan del Sur and Amparo Mabanag of Mountain Province received accolades for their intricate embroidery and beadwork, which embody cultural meanings linked to identity, spirituality, and community life. Weaving experts Marife Ganahon of Bukidnon, Samporonia Madanlo of Davao Oriental, and Barbara Ofong of South Cotabato were honored for their mastery in using native materials and detailed patterns to express community stories and spirit.
In the field of traditional dance, Hadja Sakinur-ain Delasas of Tawi-Tawi was celebrated for her expressive movements, which convey her people’s culture, while Bundos Fara of South Cotabato was acknowledged for his skill in brass casting, crafting enduring pieces that symbolize cultural pride and identity. President Marcos emphasized that cultural preservation is a collective responsibility, not solely the work of artists or the state. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding indigenous culture and traditions amid rapid technological advancements.
Marcos highlighted the rich cultural heritage inherited from ancestors as treasures to be safeguarded and passed on to future generations. He praised the awardees as ‘living embodiments of our national heritage,’ who demonstrate that deeply rooted and consciously preserved culture is indelible. The awardees will receive a commemorative medal, a PHP100,000 grant, and a PHP10,000 monthly stipend for life. They are tasked with passing their knowledge to their communities and future generations, promoting their craft, and donating samples of their work to the National Museum. ‘Sa gitna ng makabagong mundo, kayo ang tinig ng ating pinagmulan (In the midst of a modern world, you are the voice of our roots),’ Marcos addressed the awardees.
