Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions

(Hand-out No. 1)
Introduction to Contemporary Philippine Arts
Contemporary Art
✓ Art of Today
✓ Art produced by the 21st Century Artists
✓ Characteristics: Diverse and Eclectic
✓ The art of dynamic combination of materials, methods, concepts, and subjects that are challenge
traditional boundaries and defy easy definition. Contemporary art is distinguished by the very lack of
uniformity, organizing principle and ideology.
✓ Performance Art, Video Art, Land Art, Installation art, even Virtual Art. It focuses more on the social
issues.
✓ It is never been fixed, but is open to many possibilities.
Modern Art
✓ Art began from the 1880’s up to 1960’s
✓ Set aside the traditional art such as ROMANTICISM
✓ Romanticism believed in the potential for spiritual and emotional greatness in all people. Marble is
commonly used for sculpture in the Romantic period.
✓ Birth of “isms”
✓ Impressionism (Claude Monet) relatively thin, small brush strokes,
✓ Symbolism (allegorical arts) William Blake,
✓ Cubism (Pablo Picasso)
✓ Expressionism
✓ Futurism
✓ Fauvism- Henri Matisse (using intense light to light, space, emotions)
✓ Modern Art occurred during industrial revolution.

Brief History of the Philippine Arts

1. Pre- conquest- Everyday expressions were all integrated within rituals and marked significant moments in
community’s life like planting and harvesting, rites of passage, funerary ceremonies, weddings and among others. Prior
to colonization, art of the ancient Filipinos were woven into the fabric of everyday life. They do not refer to “art” as we
do today. They did not distinguish forms into different categories.
Famous Arts: Indigenous arts (pottery, weaving, carving, body aesthetic, among others).

Figure 1: Manunggul Jar Figure 2: Bulul also known as tinagtaggu, is a Figure 3: Pintados (body tattoos) is
discovered at Manunggul Cave, carved wooden figure used to guard the rice one practices of Leyte before
Lipuun Point, Palawan. It serves as crop by the Ifugao (and their sub-tribe colonial period
secondary burial vessel, where Kalanguya) peoples of northern Luzon. The
buried and exhumed bones are sculptures are highly stylized representations
placed of ancestors and are thought to gain power
from the presence of the ancestral spirit.
2. Islamic Colonial- the arrival of Sayyid Abbubakar of Arabia in Sulu became the turning point of the Islamic
proliferation in Mindanao. He was married to Princess Piramisuli, daughter of Rajah Baguinda. Abbubakar became the

Sultanate o0f Sulu after the death of Rajah Baguinda. As the Sultanate, he established Madrasa, a religious school that
facilitated Arabic writing. He introduced also the Quran, the holy scriptures of Muslim.
Unlike other religious traditions which make use of icons, in Islam, divine Unity is expressed through abstract
forms and patterns that compel the believer to engage in mental concentration. Filipino Muslims recognize that they
belong to an Ummah or a community. Central to the Islamic faith is the doctrine of Tawhid or unity of god.
Famous Arts: Islamic arts: Mihrab or niche (see figure) & Quibla (see figure) wall are oriented to the west. Ka’ bah (Ka’a
bah), a black shrine believed to be built by Muhammad himself. Islamic art forms are inclined to project, grow or have an
upward orientation, in tune with the regard for heaven and to veer from the “material earth”.

Figure 4: Sarimanok of Maranaos Figure 6: Burraq, a horse with a head of a

Figure 5: Torogan, the royal house of Maranao.
which symbolises good fortune. woman, an important figure believed to
Ponolong, an elaborately carved protrusion akin to
a wing attached to the torogan. carry the Prophet (Muhammad) in his
ascension to heaven.
3. Spanish Period- while the South (Mindanao) remained resistant to Spanish colonization, the colonizers gained inroads
in the Central part of the islands whose inhabitants we now refer to as “Lowland Christians”. Art that flourished during
the Spanish colonial period conformed to the demands of the church and the colonial state. Religious orders were
dispatched to convert the natives to Catholicism as part of the larger project of colonization.

Governor Generals and other famous personalities during Spanish Era:

Famous Arts: The art forms from that period are referred to stylistically and culturally as religious art, lowland Christian
art, or folk art. Images of Saints and interpretations of biblical narratives were considered essential to worship. Under
the strict watch and patronage of the church, images were produced through painting, sculpting and engraving. The
friars brought with them Western models for local artists to copy. Made of wood or ivory, the imagery of the Santo
would be based on classical and baroque models. The Greek and Roman classical influence can be seen in the proportion
employed as well as the formality of expression while the trace of the baroque is evident in the expressive and
emotional characteristics of the Santo. In colonial churches, Santos are displayed in a decorative altar niche called the
Retablo.

Figure 7: Carta Hydrographica Y

Figure 8: Zarzuela. Form of Spanish or Spanish-derived musical
Chorographica de las Islas Filipinas. The first
theatre in which the dramatic action is carried through an
scientific map of the Philippines.
alternating combination of song and speech.
 Figure 9: Zarzuela. From the left: Doctrina Christiana- the first book ever published in the Philippines. Retablos which are prominent
in Spanish Era. Estampas, books of picture especially religious entities. Dances such as Cariñosa and Polka have Wertern origin.

4. American Period-
Major art movements- the Independence that the Philippines gained after the revolution of 1896 was cut short with the
establishment of the American colonial government in the Philippines. Bound by the Treaty of Paris in 1898, Spain
“surrendered” the Philippines to the United States. From 1899 to 1913, the bloody Philippine-American war occurred,
claiming the lives of many Filipinos. Beginning with the institution of Government and education systems, the new
colonial government took charge of initiating the natives into the American way of life, creating a lasting influence on
Filipino culture.
Famous Arts:
A Modern Filipina- first Filipino Play written in English wrote By Lino Castillejo and Jesus Araullo
Vaudeville- originated In France theatrical play introduced by Americans to the Filipinos.
✓ Inclination towards genre, still life, and portrait paintings persisted.
✓ 1908- The establishment of University of the Philippines
✓ 1909- school of Fine Arts was open in University of the Philippines
Fabian de la Rosa- known for his naturalist paintings. Dubbed as “Master of Genre”
Fernando Amorsolo- prolific artist known for his romantic paintings. He was also the graphic artist for the textbook
series- the Philippine readers, and illustrator in newspaper, the independent.
Guillermo Tolentino (Figure10) - Amorsolo’s counterpart in sculpture. He studied fine arts in Rome. The man behind the
Oblation (1935) (Figure 11), and Bonifacio monument (1933) in Caloocan (Figure 12)

Figure 10, 11 & 12: Guillermo Tolentino was the man behind the works of art Oblation of UP (right) and Andes
Bonifacio monument (center).

5. Japanese Period- art production once again tilted to fulfil the agenda and demands of the new colonial order. The
Japanese forces led the formation of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere, a propaganda movement that sought
to create a Pan-Asian identity that rejected Western traditions. Slogans such as “Asia for Asians” made its way to the
public through posters, ephemera, comics, and Japanese sponsored publications such as production of images, text, and
music underwent scrutiny.
Famous Arts:
Proliferation of art techniques such as Neo-realism, Abstraction, and Other Modern art styles.

Figure 13: Gadgets II Figure 14: Street

(1949) of Cesar Legaspi Musician of Arturo Luz
depicts the mutant
fusing of man and
machine in an age
where the industrial
was both feared and
mythologized

Figure 15: Vicente Manansala’s The Beggars (1952)

consists of the image of two women with emaciated
bodies, their forlorn faces set against the dark
background capturing the dreariness of poverty.
6. Contemporary Period- under the helm of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos beginning in 1965, many cultural projects
ensued amid the backdrop of poverty and volatile and social conditions. Amidst claims of national chaos of emergency
proportions, Martial Law was declared on September 21, 1972. Under Martial Law, Marcos envisioned a New Society or
Bagong Lipunan, which worked toward the rebirth of a long lost civilization, on one hand, and aspiration to
modernization and development. This vision was propagated and implemented through an art and culture program that
combined the fine arts, architecture, interior design, tourism, convention city building (hotels, theatres, coliseums),
engineering, urban planning health and among others.

The discourse of rebirth can also be discerned in the anthem or songs the regime sponsored and circulated through the
media and public education channels. The optimism toward a new beginning was articulated for example, in Levi Celerio
and Felipe Padilla de Leon’s composition for the New Society titled Bagong Pagsilang.

Famous Arts:
Social Realism- a significant strand that emerged during the intense political ferment of 70’s and the 80’s. Using various
mediums, techniques, and styles, Social Realism (SR) became a form of protest art that exposed the socio-political issues
and struggles of the times.

Figure 16: Antipas Delotavo’s Itak sa Puso ni Figure 17: The main building of Cultural
Mang Juan. According to critics, this painting Center of the Philippines (CCP). The premier
symbolises Neo-colonialism that Philippines is stage for culture and the arts in the Philippines
experiencing today.

Figure 18: Kinupot (1977) by Philippine artist

Figure 19: Bob Ong’s satirical novel
Edgar Fernandez. The artwork's title combines
which depicts different practices and Figure 20: Movies such as GOYO,
two Filipino words: kinuha (“got”) and sinupot
experiences of a common Filipino. portrays the historical resiliency of
(“bagged”), referring to the abductions of political
Filipinos during colonization.
activists by the military or paramilitary during
[former] Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos'
martial law rule.
Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
Regions
(Hand-out No. 2)
Principles of Arts & Design
Principles of Contemporary Arts
Appropriation- refers to the act of borrowing or reusing existing elements within a new work. One major drawbacks of
this principle is the issues of originality and authorship.

Examples:

Figure 2.1: Michelangelo’s

“Creation of Adam” (left) is being
appropriated to change its
concepts or to make it more
satirical artwork.

Hybridity- blending of new or unusual materials with traditional mediums. The incorporation of these materials plays
an important role in the meaning of the artwork.

Examples:

Figure 2.2: Charcoal is one of the

unusual materials nowadays used by
painters or illustrators.

Figure 2.3: Artist used keys to create

a bottle art. This is an example of
hybridity.

Destruction- refers to when an artist uses methods to show damage in or to their artwork. Many times this destruction
is documented as a process, which in return becomes the work itself.

Examples:

Figure 2.4: Gun powder art is an

example of destruction art.

Text- contemporary artists utilize text in their art to push past the concept that text is only meant to be read. The
additional meaning from the text adds another level of depth that cannot be created by shape and colour alone.

Examples: Figure 2.5: Letters Figure 2.6: Letters or

or words as traces words as traces to
to create man’s create an animal
face. figure (chameleon).
Words that describe
chameleon were used.
Performance- refers to an artwork created by or presented to an audience. Performance as an element can also
include the processes used by an artist to create a work. This takes place especially when the process is more important
than the finished work itself.

Examples:

Figure 2.7: Performance

portraying different social issues,
and man’s deep emotions.

Perspective- either be localized, forced, or anamorphic. Refers to when an artist works with the real space surrounding
the artwork itself. Perspective can play a role in the way the viewer looks at the artwork or even the way the work is
perceived.

Examples:

Figure 2.8: Urban arts, Street arts and

most of the installation arts used real
spaces not only to entertain people
but also to inform the audience about
the meaning of the artwork.

Time- time is incorporated into an artwork when the meaning of the work is dependent on the passing of time. Artists
today manipulate how moments of time are experienced through the viewing of their artwork.

Examples:

Figure 2.9: Videographers

and Photographers
manipulate time to create
a visionary photographs &
videos.
 Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
Regions
(Hand-out No. 3)
Contemporary Art Forms
Literature
Art form of language through the combined used of words. Art of creating meaning and experience mainly through
writing. Philippine literature reflects a diverse group of works which are mostly grounded on traditional folktales, socio-
political histories & real life experiences.

Examples:

Figure 3.1: Figure 3.2: Compilation

Contemporary of different punch lines &
author Bob Ong personal life of former
made famous senator Merriam
satirical novels Defensor Santiago are the
such as “Lumayo contents of the two
Ka Nga Sa Akin” books “Stupid is Forever”

Music- Art form that appeals in the sense of hearing. Art of combining notes into harmony. Philippine music is a mixture
of European, American and indigenous sounds. Hip-hop & rock ‘N roll, pop music, Austronesian sound respectively.

Examples:

Figure 3.3: Although Western

and other foreign music
proliferated the radio stations
of the country, OPM are still
alive amidst the foreign sounds.
Contemporary singers such as
Moira, Morissette and Shanti
Dope are famous in Philippine
music industry.

Visual Arts
Architecture- 3D artwork that relies on the design and the purpose of the structure.

Sculpture- three dimensional artworks may be created using stones, wood, etc.

Picture (Painting, Drawing, Photography, Videography, Printmaking, Digital and Allied arts) - two dimensional visual art
forms

Examples:

Figure 3.4: One of the famous

architecture of the Philippines,
San Juanico Bridge which
connects Samar and Leyte
islands.
 Figure 3.5: One of the
masterpieces of Guillermo
Tolentino, the Oblation
monument.

Figure 3.6: The largest painting

in the Philippines (4.22 meters
X 7.675 meters). Oil in canvass.
One of the famous painting of
Juan Luna.

Films and Broadcast

Technological translation of theatre
Special effects are utilized to enhance the story telling.
Despite of the influence of the western films Philippine cinema has still giving the Filipino audience the taste of authentic
local films.
Examples:

Figure 3.7: Philippine movies still flourishing despite the influence of the foreign movies.

Theatre
The art form of performance
Dramatic texts are portrayed on stage by actors and enhanced by props, light and sound. Unfortunately, not all Filipinos
can access to the different theatrical performances
Examples:

Figure 3.8: Some of the theatrical plays

in the Philippines are based from the
previous famous literary works such as
Ibalong and Walang Sugat played by one
of the performing groups of the
Philippines, Tanghalang Pilipino.

Dance
The art of the body form
Performing art form consisting purposely selected sequences of human movement
The diversity of dances in the Philippines are manifested in different dynamics and forms, grew out in the various
contexts and experiences of the people.
Examples:

Figure 3.9: Singkil, one of the cultural dances of the Philippines are still being performed even up to now.
Indigenous dances are not only performed in the stage during cultural activities but also they are performed by
the tribes of the Philippines. Foreign dance crazes such as hip-hop are now part of the Philippine culture.

Government Agency responsible for the Promotion &

Preservation of Philippine Culture and Arts
National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) – through the Republic Act 7356, this Agency was
created. Moreover, this law establishes national endowment fund for culture and the arts, and for other
purposes.
NCCA is the overall policy making body, coordinating, and grants giving agency for the preservation,
development, and promotion of Philippine Art and Culture. National Commission for Culture and the
Arts have 6 major sub-agencies namely:

Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)- it is located in Paranaque City. It is established to promote,
develop, and preserve Philippine arts and culture. It is the premier venue for performing arts. Several
performing groups are residents in the CCP including the Madrigal Singers and Tanghalang Pilipino.

The logo of CCP was derived from the baybayin based from Katipunan which means, Katotohanan,
Kagandahan, Kabutihan (Truth, Beauty and Goodness).

National Museum of the Philippines- Located in the heart of Manila, the National Museum of the
Philippines is the country’s repository of archaeological artefacts, National treasures, & rare specimens
found and produces in the country.
Main task of this institution is to solicit, document, preserve, exhibit and promote the natural and
artificial wonders of the Philippines. Located at the Padre Burgos Avenue, Ermita Manila.

National Library of the Philippines (NLP) - main function is serve as repository of Printed and recorded
cultural heritage of the country and other intellectual literary & information sources.
Establish in 1901, also known as “American Circulating Library” to serve as “memorial to American
servicemen who died in the Philippine soil.” Located at 1000 Kalaw Avenue, Ermita, 1000 Metro Manila

National Archives of the Philippines (NAP) is guardian to over 60 million documents from the Spanish
era dating 1552-1990 and various records from the American period to the Republic.

National Historical Commission of the Philippines- tasked for the identification, conservations, &
restoration of historical sites around the different regions of the country.

Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) - Undertake, coordinate and promote researches for the
development of propagation & preservation of Filipino and other Philippine languages.
 Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
Regions
(Hand-out No. 4)
Literature
Introduction

Contemporary Filipino Artists have a responsibility to create art that would enlighten the people of the current
conditions of the society. A national artist is a distinguished individual who has made an outstanding contribution to
Philippine Arts.
In 1972, the Philippines named the first national artist- the world class painter Fernando Amorsolo. The national artist
award is a great honour given to the Filipino whose life and works have contributed to the advancement of the country’s
arts and letters.
NCCA and CCP jointly administer the nomination and selection of the chosen exemplary artists, who are conferred by
the President of the country. In 1972, Presidential Proclamation No. 1001, s. 1972 created and established “the Award
and Decoration of National Artist” This law enabled the government “to give appropriate recognition and prestige to
Filipinos artists.”

National Artists of the Philippines in Literature

Philippine literature is a rich group of literary works that has developed along with the country’s history. Long
before the arrival of Western influences, early Filipinos already have stories to tell to your younger generations.
The Philippine s has a rich collection of fables, legends, and myths from different regions. The babaylan, the
early healers, used chants to please the supernatural beings or spirits to bestow good health and fortune in the home
and the fields. Today, contemporary writers are expanding the horizon of reality and imagination in their works to
reflect the Filipino spirit.
The Philippines has an immense literary tradition that reflects the country’s history. Let us take a look at the
country’s most talented and most influential writers who have received the greatest honor for their significant
contributions to Philippine literature.

FRANCISCO ARCELLANA (1916-2002)

Year of Conferment: 1990

One of the Filipino poets of his generation. He studied in Tondo Intermediate School. Arcellana is
considered as one of the pioneers of Modern Filipino short story in English. His short stories are
written in lyrical prose-poetic form. Arcellana’s exceptional works in fiction include:

1. Death in Factory Some of his poems include:

2. A Clown Remembers
1. The Other Woman
3. Divided by Two
2. To Touch You, I Touched Her

N.V.M. GONZALEZ (1915-1999)

Year of conferment: 1997

Nestor Vicente Madali Gonzalez was born in Romblon. In 1948, he received a Rockefeller Foundation
Fellowship, which allowed him to study in Stanford University and Columbia University. He is a
famed poet, short story writer, essayist, professor, and recipient of numerous recognitions. His
works have been published in several languages including Filpino, English, Chinese, German, Russian
and Indonesian.

His notable works include:

1. The Winds of April (1941)

2. A Season of Grace (1956)
3. The Bamboo Dancers (1988)
 NICK JOAQUIN (1917-2004)
Year of Conferment: 1976

His literary works are prolific and unparalleled. He considered by many as the People’s writer
because his passion for writing embraced manifold being of Filipinos. He worked as a journalist
for most of his life, pioneering LITERARY JOURNALISM. Literary Journalism is a form of creative
non-fiction that reports real events using the style and techniques used in literary texts. Nick
Joaquin used the pen name Quijano de Manila for some of his works.

His works include:

1. The Woman who had Two Navels
2. Manila, My Manila: A History for the Young
3. The Ballad of the Five Battles
4. Rizal in Saga: A life for the Student Fans
5. Almanac for Manileños
6. Cave of Shadows

F. SIONIL JOSE (BORN IN 1924)

Year of Conferment: 2001

Francisco Sionil Jose is a prolific writer whose works have been translated in more than 20
languages.
His works (which are termed as Rosales Saga) include:
1. The Pretenders- Novel
2. My Brother
3. The Executioner
4. Mass
5. Po-on

JOSE GARCIA VILLA (1908-1997)

Year of Conferment: 1973

He is considered as a powerful literary influence in the country during 20th Century. If you will
study his work, you will notice his use of comma (,) in every word. Villa described this technique
similar to Seurat’s POINTILLISM. Pointillism is a painting technique in which the artist use small
dots of pure color to create an image. Doveglion is Villa’s pseudonym.

His works include:

1. Footnote to Youth: Tales of the Philippines and Others- collection of short stories
2. Doveglion- collection of poems
3. Poems in Praise of Love

EDITH L. TIEMPO (1919-2011)

Year of Conferment: 1999

Her literary works are described as a remarkable fusion of style and substance. She was a
recipient of Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature for her short story “The Black
Monkey” in 1951.

Her famous novels:

1. A blade of Fern (1978)
2. The Native Coast (1979)
3. The Alien Corn (1992)
Her famous collection of poems:

1. The Charmer’s Box and other Poems (1993)

2. The tracks of Babylon and other Poems (1993)
 VIRGILIO S. ALMARIO (BORN IN 1944)
Year of Conferment: 2003

Also known as Rio Alma, he is a poet and historian. He was born in San Miguel de
Mayumo, Bulacan.

His notable works:

1. Translations of Rizals 2 novels (Noli Me Tangere & EL Filibusterismo) -considered to be
the best version according to Manila Critics.
2. Makinasyon- Poem
3. Peregrinasyon- Poem
4. Doktrinang Anak-pawis- Trilogy poem
5. Mga Retrato at Rekwerdo- Poem
6. Muli, sa Kandungan ng Lupa- Poem

AMADO V. HERNANDEZ (1903-1970)

Year of Conferment: 1973

This courageous writer was well-known for his disapproval of social injustices in the
country. His works especially his novels portrays different political & social issues from his
time. He was married to another national artist, Filipino actress ATANG DE LA RAMA.

His notable works:

1. Mga Ibong Mandaragit- novel he wrote while he is in prison
2. Bayang Malaya
3. Isang Dipang Langit
4. Luha ng Buwaya
5. Langaw sa Isang Basong Gatas at iba pang Tula

CARLOS P. ROMULO (1898-1985)

Year of Conferment: 1982

He was an envoy, statesman, soldier, correspondent, writer, and founder of the Boy
Scout of the Philippines. He was the only Asian to be awarded a Pulitzer Prize in
Journalism for a series of articles forecasting the outbreak of World War II.

His notable works:

1. The United (novel)
2. I Walked with Heroes (an autobiography)
3. I saw the Fall of the Philippines
4. I see the Philippine Rise (war time memoirs)

CARLOS L. QUIRINO (1910-1999)

Year of Conferment: 1997

Carlos Lozada Quirino is one of the most talented biographers of his time. He was
the first Filipino to be recognized as the National Artist in Historical Literature in
1997.

Notable work:

1. Man of Destiny (1935), a biography of the second President of the Philippines,

Manuel L. Quezon
 ALEJANDRO R. ROCES (1924-2011)
Year of Conferment: 1997
He was an exceptional writer of comic short stories. Roces is also a multi-awarded
writer receiving honors and recognitions including the Rizal Pro Patria Award and the
Gawad CCP para sa Sining.

His famous work:

1. My Brother’s Peculiar Chicken (short story). This particular story won an award
in the University of Arizona and was listed in Martha Foley’s Best American Short
Stories

LAZARO FRANCISCO (1898-1980)

Year of Conferment: 2009

He is considered to be an icon in Tagalog writing through his national and

social criticisms. He founded the Kapatiran ng mga Alagad ng Wikang Pilipino
(KAWIKA)

Notable works:

1. Binhi at Bunga (novel)

2. Cesar (novel)
3. Bayang Nagpatiwakal (novel)
4. Sa Paanan ng Krus (novel)
5. Ang Pamana ng Pulubi (novel)
6. Deo (short story)
7. Ang Beterano (short story)
8. Ang Idolo (short story)

BUENVENIDO LUMBRERA (BORN IN 1932)

Year of Conferment: 2006

He is an award-winning poet, librettist, and scholar. He has published numerous

literary and creative works.
Notable works:
1) Likhang Dila, Likhang Diwa (1993)
2) Balaybay: Mga Tulang Lunot at Manibalang
3) Sa Sariling Bayan: Apat na Dulang may Musika
4) Pakikiramay
5) “Agunyas sa Hacienda Luisita”

CIRILO F. BAUTISTA (BORN IN 1941)

Year of Conferment: 2014

He is a highly praised poet, fictionist, and essayist. He is also a Palanca Hall Famer,
winning countless awards and honors, including the National Book Awards, Gawad CCP
para sa Sining an among others. Bautista is an academician and a scholar. He taught for
more than 30 years.
Notable works:
1. Trilogy of Saint Lazarus (2001)
2. Believe and Betray: New and Collected Poems (2005)
3. Galaw ng Asoge (2004)
4. The House of True Desire: Essays about Life and Literature (2013)
5. Things Happen: Poems 2012 (2014)
 2018 National Artists of the Philippines in Literature
Here are two (2) recently awarded as National Artists on October 24, 2018. They were declared by President Rodrigo
Roa Duterte.

RESIL MOJARES (1943)

Year of Conferment: 2018

Historian and critic of Philippine literature best

known for his books on Philippine History. He is
acclaimed by various writers and critics at the
Visayan Titan of Letters, due to his immense
contribution to Visayan Literature.

RAMON MUZONES (1913-1992)

Year of Conferment: 2018

Author of 61 novels, Hiligaynon writer. He is the

first vernacular writer from the regions ever to win
the coveted award in its 45 year of existence since
the institution in 1973.

12 Literary Compositions that have influenced the World

1. Bible- Became the basis of Christianity originating from Palestine and Greece
2. Koran- the Muslim bible from Arabia
3. Iliad and Odyssey- have been the source of MYTHS and LEGENDS of GREECE.
4. Mahabharata- Longest epic of the world. Contains the history of RELIGION in INDIA.
5. Canterbury Tales- Depicts the religion and customs of the English in early days/ originated from England and
was written by Geoffrey Chaucer (Father of American Literature). It consists of 22 stories and 2 more in
fragments
6. Uncle Tom’s Cabin- written by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Depicted the sad fate of SLAVES; this became the BASIS
OF DEMOCRACY later on.
7. Divine Comedy- Written by Dante Aliegheri of ITALY. Shows the RELIGION AND CUSTOMS of the early ITALIANS
8. El Cid Campeador- Shows the cultural characteristics of the SPANIARDS and their national history.
9. Book of the Dead- Includes the CULT OF OSIRIS and the MYTHOLOGY and THEOLOGY of EGYPT
10. Song of Roland- Includes DOS PARES and Roncesvalles of France. It tells about the GOLDEN AGE OF FRANCE. It
centres on the death of Charlemagne's nephew Roland at the battle of Roncevaux.
11. Book of the Days- Written by Confucius; became the BASIS of the CONFUCIANISM
12. One Thousand and One Nights/ Arabian Nights- from ARABIA and PERSIA; this shows the ways of
GOVERNMENT of INDUSTRIES and of the SOCIETY of the Arabs and Persians.

National Artists of the Philippines in Music

 Antonio J. Molina (1894-1980)
Year of Conferment: 1973

The Dean of the Filipino composers is no one else but Antonio Molina. This national artist is
multi-talented musician, writer, and music educator. He was the last of the musical
triumvirate. At a young age, he learned to play the violoncello.

Notable works:

1. Hatinggabi- a popular serenade for solo violin and piano supplement

2. Popularized the music Kung Sa Iyong Gunita, Awit ni Maria Clara & Larawan Nitong
Pilipinas

Antonio R. Buenaventura (1904-1996)

Year of Conferment: 1988

He popularized folksongs by creating music based on the wide array of folksongs from
various ethnic groups in the Philippines.

His notable works include:

1. Ode to Freedom,
2. Echoes of the past
3. Echoes from the Philippines
4. History Fantasy
5. Triumphal March

Ernani J. Cuenco (1936-1988)

Year of Conferment: 1999
According to NCCA, his works were reviewed as “an outstanding and memorable
body of works that resonates with the Filipino sense of musicality and which embodies an
ingenious voice that raises the aesthetic dimensions of Contemporary Filipino music.”

As a film scorer, he composed music for the films Wild, Wild Jess & El Vibora. Which
earned him the Best Music Award at the MMFF in 1982 and the FAMAS awards respectively.

Some Notable Works:

1. Filipino Love Ballads Kalesa, Bato sa Buhangin, Gaano Kita Kamahal, and Inang Bayan.
Elements of kundiman were added to the songs.

Jovita Fuentes (1895-1978)

Year of Conferment: 1976

In 1976, she made Philippine history by being given the honor as the first female
National artists for Music. Before Lea Salonga became a Broadway and West End Superstar,
Fuentes performed roles in major productions such as Mimi in Giacomo Puccini’s La Boheme
and Princess Yang Gui Fe in Li tai Pe. Her role in the New York production of Madama Butterfly
was one of her proud moments.
Lucrecia R. Kasilag (1917-2008)
Year of Conferment: 1989

She was a renowned Filipino composer. She fused Filipino ethnic music with
Western influences. This led to Kasilag to create the Bayanihan Folk Arts Center for
Research and theatrical presentations that urges to integrate native Filipino
instruments in orchestral productions.

She popularized the following orchestral music:

1. Her Son
2. Jose
3. Sisa
4. Legend of Sarimanok

Lucio D. San Pedro (1913-2002)

Year of Conferment: 1991

An educator, master conductor, and a brilliant composer, national artist Lucio Diestro San
Pedro through his works “evoked the folk elements of the Filipino Heritage.” San Pedro led
local bands such as the Banda Angono Numero Uno, the San Pedro Band of Angono, and the
Peng Kong Grand Mason Concert Band as Master conductor.

Works include:

1. The Devil’s Bridge (orchestral music)

2. Sa Mahal Kong Bayan (choral music)
3. Lahing Kayumanggi (band music)
4. Sa Ugoy ng Duyan (vocal music) , a lullaby

Andrea O. Veneracion (1928-2013)

Year of Conferment: 1999

Andrea Ofilada Veneracion founded the Philippine Madrigal Singers. The group is one of
the most passionate and talented musical groups in the country. By founding the group,
according to NCCA Veneracion had been responsible for “spearheading of the
development of Philippine choral music.”

Felipe Padilla De Leon (1912-1992)

Year of Conferment: 1991

He is a multitalented musician who was a composer, conductor, and a scholar. His works
have “Filipinized Western Music Forms”

De leon’s works include:

1. Maria Makiling Overture

2. Orchestertuk
3. Lupang Tinubuan
4. Opera adaptation of Noli Me Tangere
Jose Maceda (1917-2004)
Year of Conferment: 1997

Maceda was a highly acclaimed Filipino composer and ethnomusicologist.

Ethnomusicology is an interdisciplinary study of music along with other fields such
as cultural anthropology, performance studies and dance.

Notable works:

Compositions such as:

1. Suling-suling
2. Aroding
3. Ugnayan

Famous compositions for communal ritual such as:

1. Ugma-ugma (1963)
2. Pagsamba (1968)
3. Udlot-udlot (1975)

Levi Celerio (1910-2002)

Year of Conferment: 1991

Levi Celerio was a highly talented lyricist, with more than 4, 000 songs under his name. This
volume of lyrics is perhaps the Celerio’s contribution in Music industry. He was also known as
an excellent leaf player- the use of leaves to create a music/sound as cited by the Guiness
Book of World Records.

Notable songs include:

1. Saan Ka Man Naroroon

2. Ikaw
3. Misa de Gallo
4. Pasko Na Naman

Francisco Feliciano (1941-2014)

Year of Conferment: 2014

He was a prolific composer of over 30 major works. He studied music composition at the
university of the Philippines, the Hochschule der Kuenste in Berlin, Germmany, and the Yale
University School of Music. He received the John D. Rockefeller award in Music
composition in 1977.

Composed the following music:

1. La Loba Negra
2. Ashen Wings
3. Sikhay sa Kabila ng Paalam
4. Yerma
 2018 National Artists of the Philippines for Music

Ryan Cayabyab (1954-Present)

Year of Conferment: 2018
Raymundo Cipriano Pujante Caybyab is a prominent Filipino musician and the
existing Executive and Artistic Director of the San Miguel Foundation for the
performing arts. His works vary from specially made full- length ballet, theatre
musicals, choral pieces, film scores, television specials & orchestral pieces.
Famous songs of Cayabyab
1. Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika
2. Nais Ko
3. Iduyan Mo
4. Kahit Ika’y Panaginip Lang
5. Paraiso
6. Da Coconut Nut

Traditional Musical Instruments in the Philippines

Kudyapi

is a two-stringed lute approximately 4-6 ft. long. It is commonly played by

the Meranao, Maguindanao, T’boli, Manobo and other Lumad groups.

Kubing
is a type of jaw harp made from a carved bamboo reed that is played on
the lips. This instrument is actually found throughout the Philippines and
known by the names barambaw for Tagalogs and Ibaloi in Kalinga.
Gangsa
is a type of metalophone which is used popularly by the Igorot in
Cordillera Philippines. It is a single hand-held smooth surfaced gong with
a narrow rim. It varies in size and in the way it is tuned to suit the
preferred sound pitch when played.

Bandurria
The bandurria is a Spanish stringed musical instrument of the lute family,
with a design derived from the cittern and guitar. In the Medieval period,
it apparently had three strings.

Tongali
Noseflute known by a variety of names. Researchers described its tune as
an imitation of a mournful human voice, with shakes and thrills thus
appropriate to wakes and funerals.
Kulintang
It is one of the top 3 instruments more primarily known. It is composed of
different sets of gongs usually between 5-9. It is aligned horizontally next
to each other on a rack and arranged in order of the pitch with the lowest
gong, primarily set on the players left, thus completing the ensemble.

Solibao
Native drum of Igorots. This is a musical instrument made from a
carefully chosen single piece of wood with one end covered with cow
skin. These are common in kankanaey and Ibaloi tribe - Benguet, Sagada,
Lepanto area but are not known in the neighboring Bontoc region.

Litguit
A traditional Filipino instrument that is used to make percussion sounds
that resemble those of maracas.

Bungkaka
A bungkaka, also known as the bamboo buzzer is a percussion
instrument (idiophone) made out of bamboo common in numerous
indigenous tribes around the Philippines such as the Ifugao, Kalinga, and
Ibaloi.