President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday conferred the 2023 Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) on nine exceptional traditional artists for their contributions to preserving and expressing cultural identity through traditional arts, crafts, and storytelling.
During the celebration at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theater, President Marcos called the nine awardees “cultural masters” whose lives continue to preserve Filipino traditions and cultural practices integral to the national identity.
“Ang ating pagkakakilanlan bilang Pilipino ay hinubog ng mayamang kultura at tradisyong minana natin sa ating mga ninuno–kayamanang ating iniingatan at ipapasa sa susunod na mga henerasyon,” the President said.
The GAMABA, created through Republic Act No. 7355, recognizes Filipino traditional artists who exemplify excellence and dedication to their craft. The law ensures the continuity of Indigenous cultural traditions across generations.
GAMABA awardees Adelita Bagcal of Ilocos Norte and Rosie Sula of South Cotabato were honored for preserving oral tradition and chanting, keeping ancestral voices alive through storytelling passed from generation to generation.
Other GAMABA awardees, Abina Coguit of Agusan del Sur and Amparo Mabanag of Mountain Province, were recognized for their intricate embroidery and beadwork, which reflect deep cultural meanings tied to identity, spirituality, and community life.
The award was given to Marife Ganahon of Bukidnon, Samporonia Madanlo of Davao Oriental, and Barbara Ofong of South Cotabato for their mastery in weaving. Through native materials and detailed patterns, their work weaves the stories and spirit of their communities.
In traditional dance, Hadja Sakinur-ain Delasas of Tawi-Tawi was honored for her graceful movement, which powerfully expressed her people’s culture.
Finally, Bundos Fara of South Cotabato was recognized for his expertise in brass casting, using fire and metal to create enduring pieces that symbolize cultural pride and identity.
President Marcos recognized the vital role of cultural masters in preserving the Filipino spirit amid modernization and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting traditional artists through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). | PND
