Unit 2

RECOGNIZING GAMABA
AND THE NATIONAL
ARTISTS
Introduction
Art works are produced by either an artist or an artisan. Each has his/her own role in the art
arena. However, how could we distinguish an artist from that of an artisan? How could we know
that the art works we are enjoying are created by an artist or artisan? Undoubtedly, people get
confused of these two terms.

Further, recognizing one’s contribution to the development of the Philippine arts simply shows
how we treasure and value our Filipino culture. To give honor for the artists’ efforts, two major
awards (Order ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining or Order of National Artists and Gawad sa
Manlilikha ng Bayan or National Living Treasures Award) are given.

This unit is designed for you to get acquainted with the personages who made names in world of
arts in the country.

Unit Learning Outcomes

At the end of this unit, you will be able to:
a. Distinguish Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan Award from National Artists Award;
b. Conduct a research about an artist/artisan who has dedicated his/her life to the
cultivation of the arts; and
c. Demonstrate appreciation on the contribution of an artist or artisan in the community.

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Topic 1: Giving Honor to the Artists and Artisans
Time Allotment: 3 hours

Learning Objectives
At the end of the session, you will be to:
a. Distinguish artist from artisan;
b. Write a feature article about an artist/artisan who has dedicated his/her life to the
cultivation of the arts; and
c. Demonstrate appreciation on the contribution of an artist or artisan in the
community.

Activating Prior Learning

Read and analyze the given statements below, then identify each statement whether this refers to
an artist or artisan.

_______1. He/She is able to produce something that has a functional value.

_______2. He/She is a person who performs any of the creative arts.
_______3. He/She is a skilled worker who makes things by hand.
_______4. He/She is able to create art for the of art itself without needing any ulterior
motives.
_______5. He/She has the skill of adding aesthetic value to the objects that he/she
creates.

Presentation of Content
Who is an Artist?
Artists work in the fine arts, including painting, illustration, and sculpture. All fine artists
first learn to sketch, and begin with a pencil and sketchpad to work with an idea on paper. Artists
transfer their vision to canvases or other medium, and this may mean working in oil, watercolor
or pastel. Sculptors take their sketches and create 3D products from clay, marble or other
material. Illustrators might work for a publishing or animation company, or create original comic
books. All artists’ work aims to create an overall reaction from a viewer.
Generally, an artist is defined as an art practitioner who produces or creates indirectly-
functional arts with aesthetic value using imagination.

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They produce us pieces as the means of provoking our thought, ideas and emotions that are
necessary to discover ourselves and our feelings.
Job responsibilities of an artist include:
a. Developing ideas for a canvas or product
b. Selecting a medium for a final work, including texture, size, or area
c. Collecting work for a portfolio
d. Applying for grants for financial support

Take a look at these famous artists.

FERNANDO AMORSOLO
Fernando Cueto Amorsolo is one of the most important artists in the
history of painting in the Philippines. Amorsolo was a portraitist and
painter of rural Philippine landscapes. He is popularly known for his
craftsmanship and mastery in the use of light.

He painted and sketched more than ten thousand pieces over his lifetime
using natural and backlighting techniques. His most known works are of
the dalagang Filipina, landscapes of his Philippino homeland, portraits
and WWII war scenes.

Born in Calle Herran in Paco, Manila, on May 30, 1892, Fernando

Amorsolo began drawing and sketching as a young boy. The family lived in Daet until the death
of his father. At that time his mother moved the family to the home of her cousin, artist Don
Fabian dela Rosa in Manila. Amorsolo was 13 years old at the time and in order to help provide
for his family, he sold his drawings and began to study art under dela
Rosa. http://fernandoamorsolopaintings.com/Fernando_Amorsolo_Biography_Page.htm

A closer look at this work will reveal brush strokes executed with the ease of a virtuoso. The
featured painting is considered a masterpiece for the subtlety of its encoded messages, which,
in this case, has been described as national pride. In stark contrast to the increasing
westernization of the urban capital Manila, this work is a celebration of the pristine, rural
Philippine countryside. The scene is bathed in sunlight and features a country maiden. This
work is a fine example of this National Artist’s favorite subject and setting. Amorsolo notes, “My
conception of an ideal Filipina beauty is one with a rounded face, not of the oval type... The
eyes should be exceptionally lively… The nose should be of the blunt form but firm and strongly
marked… The ideal Filipino beauty should have a sensuous mouth…not…white-complexioned,
nor of the dark brown color…but of the clear skin…which we often witness when we meet a
blushing girl.” For Amorsolo, the Filipino beauty was an important symbol of national identity.
The colors of the Philippine flag are evident in the blue kerchief, red skirt, and white blouse.
The subject gazes directly at the viewer, holding a generous bundle of newly harvested rice, a
hope-filled moment for the young Philippines.

Untitled (Palay Maiden)

http://masterpieces.asemus.museum/
masterpiece/detail.nhn?objectId=10429

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JUAN LUNA
Juan Luna is considered one of the greatest Filipino artists in
Philippine history with masterpieces such as Spolarium, The Death
of Cleopatra and Blood Compact. Not only did he excel in artistry,
but he was also a political activist during the time of the Philippine
Revolution during the late 19thcentury. His close friendship with
National Hero Jose Rizal has sparked Philippine nationalism and
pride. Juan Luna was mostly known for his works as being dramatic
and dynamic, focusing on romanticism and realism styles of art.

http://vanz2005.tripod.com/vanz.html

This is the “Spoliarium” by Juan Novicio Luna,

as masterpiece created in 1884. It is one of the
prize possessions of the Philippine National
Museum today. This Neoclassical artwork
earned Juan Luna 3 gold medal in
the Exposicion Nacional de Bellas Artes and
recognition among the connoisseurs and art
critics. It was praise so much that even Jose
Rizal, Philippine’s national hero, prepared a
speech for Juan Luna, addressing two things
from his artwork, the glorification of genius and
the grandeur of his artistic skills. And it’s not a
surprise why he called the artwork “The
Glorification of Genius.” Not only does it
enticed the fewer with compelling imagery of
death, but it also sneaks in a historical nod to the Filipino History.
                                                                                                                                             Spolarium
https://www.quora.com/What-­‐is-­‐a-­‐good-­‐analysis-­‐of-­‐the-­‐painting-­‐Spoliarium-­‐by-­‐Juan-­‐Luna  

What you have just learned is an artist. This time, may you get familiar with an artisan.
Who is an artisan?
Artisans are craftsmen who work in textiles, pottery, glass and other areas. They are craftsmen
who make practical artistic products, such as earrings, urns, stained glass and other accessories.
They gain their knowledge by studying under master craftsmen and then practicing with
continued study. They work to create something new, original, and at times, provocative. They
spend a good portion of their time selling and promoting their items in various marketplaces.
In other words, artisans are craftsmen who produce directly functional and or decorative arts.
They help us in meeting our basic needs such as food, clothing, dwelling, furniture, kitchen
utensils and everything that makes our life easy are crafted by artisans.

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Job responsibilities of an Artisan include:
a. Using and mixing mediums like paint, metal, glass, or fabric
b. Shaping, gluing sewing, testing and producing products
c. Displaying work at various sites including auctions, craft shows or online markets
d. Estimating costs and material need

Take a look at this famous Filipino artisan.

TINA MARISTELA-OCAMPO
One featured artisan who
intended to showcase Filipino
craftsmanship is Tina Maristela-
Ocampo. When she first thought
of the concept for Celestina, what
she really wanted was to “bring
whatever here in the Philippines
out to the world. Hence, Celestina
would produce find handmade
bags using local indigenous
products crafted by Filipino artisans.

Other artisans engage themselves in producing different products.

https://pixabay.com/en/ancient-­‐pottery-­‐pots-­‐clay-­‐antique-­‐2179091/                      https://pixabay.com/en/wickerwork-­‐basket-­‐weavers-­‐craft-­‐1314017/  

Filipinos are known for being creative and resourceful. They try to maximize what whatever
resources they have just to earn and sustain their basic needs.

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LOOK: Dumagat artisans turn driftwood into artworks

Rogelio, one of the Dumagats living near the Ipo Dam in Bulacan, has got the nature as his
partner in making great art pieces.
The 12 Dumagat artisans in Rogelio’s community transforms driftwood, an uprooted and
fallen part of trees washed away by river and streams, they collected from the watershed to create
competitive sculpture pieces bearing nature-inspired designs.
After gathering the wood from the water, the artisans will then let them dry for three days,
and when these are ready, the transformation starts.
In creating artworks, the artisans let their imaginations run wild and thus seeing existing
images out of the driftwood. And from there, the simple wood becomes a distinct sculpture of
nature’s elements. Birds, fishes and even humans, among others, are just some of the favorite
images formed in the sculptures of the Dumagat artisans.
One would really expect great artworks coming from the driftwood, which was only used
before by the locals as firewood, as the Dumagat artisans were trained by renowned Filipino
sculptures.
Rogelio, who has nine children, gets a living from his masterpieces, being able to sell an
artwork for up to P300.
This project does not only provide the Dumagats livelihood but also provide mother earth a
support for sustainability.
ANC Green Living, 23 January 2016
http://news.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/v1/01/23/16/lok-dumagat-artisans-turn-driftwood-into-artworks

Video about Dumagat Artisans

https://news.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/v1/01/23/16/look-dumagat-artisans-turn-driftwood-
into-artworks
 

Let’s Watch!

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 Application
Activity 1. Go back to your community and look for the local artists or artisans. Have an
intensive conversation about their lives. Highlight the following information:

1. Name:______________________________________________________________
Birthday:____________________________________________________________
Education:___________________________________________________________
Address:____________________________________________________________
Type:_______________________________________________________________
Sample Artwork:
Illustration Description

2. Name:______________________________________________________________
Birthday:____________________________________________________________
Education:___________________________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________________________
Type:_______________________________________________________________
Sample Artwork:
Illustration Description

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Let’s Write!
Selecting one of your answers in Activity 1, write a feature article depicting the life of the
artist/artisan.
Written output will be graded using the given criteria.
Content 10 points
Organization 5 points
Grammar 5 points
Mechanics 5 points
25 points

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
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______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

Score:  
Feedback

I. Read and analyze the given statement below, then identify whether this refers to
an artist or artisan. Write your answer before each number.
_________1. He/She is skilled in a particular activity such as drawing, designing, composing,
etc.
_________2. He/She is used form musician.
_________3. He/She goes beyond the social restrictions and creates art for pleasure of creating.
_________4. He/She is able to produce various objects ranging from jewelry to furniture.
_________5. He/She gains his/her knowledge by studying under master craftsmen.
_________6. Through art, he/she can create a change in society.
_________7. He/She spends a good portion of his/her time selling and promoting his/her items
in
various marketplaces.
_________8. Tina Maristela-Ocampo intended to showcase Filipino craftsmanship.
_________9. Juan Luna is considered one of the greatest Filipino artists in Philippine history
with
masterpieces such as Spolarium, The Death of Cleopatra and Blood Compact.
________10. The Dumagat people transformed driftwood into competitive sculpture pieces
bearing nature-inspired designs.

II. Complete the grid in the “Comparison Matrix”. Put a check mark if it describes an
artist or artisan.

Items to Characteristics

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 Compared
Uses Creates Considers Produces arts Engages in
aesthetic things by functional for pleasure arts for
value hand value economic
reasons
Artist
Artisan
III. Read and analyze the given question or statements below, then choose the letter that
corresponds to the ideas that pointed out.

1. Which of the following is considered as the highest policy-making and coordinating body
of culture and the arts of the State?
a. CHED c. DEP-ED
b. NCCA d. CCP

2. The National Living Treasures Award was institutionalized through:

a. Republic Act No. 7355 c. Republic Act No. 7735
b. Republic Act No. 7335 d. Republic Act No. 7353

3. When was the first awarding ceremony for Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan happened at
the Malacaňan Palace?
a. December 17, 1992 c. December 17, 1993
b. December 16, 1993 d. December 18, 1992

4. Which of the following is conferred on Filipinos who are at the forefront of the practice,
preservation, and promotion of the nation’s traditional folk arts?
a. National Living Treasures Award c. National Artist Award
b. FAMAS Award d. Grammy Award

5. He was the very first recipient of the National Artist Award?

a. Fernando Amorsolo c. Damian Domingo
b. Felix Hidalgo d. Juan Luna

6. All except ONE will be enjoyed by GAMABA Awardee.

a. Cash awards c. Monthly life pension,
b. Hospitalization benefit d. Burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani

7. Which of the following has worked for the preservation of Kalinga culture?
a. Ginaw Bilo c. Teofilo Garcia
b. Alonzo Saclag d. Eduardo Mutuc

8. He is widely regarded as the father of independent Philippine cinema.

a. Larry Alcala c. Kidlat Tahimik
b. Resil Mojares d. Ryan Cayabyab

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 9. He has been immortalized in the Guinness Book of World Records as the only person to
make music using just a leaf.
a. Levi Celerio c. Carlos Franscisco
b. Leandro Locsin d. Sionil Jose
10. Which of the following has spearheaded the Philippine Popular Music Festival and
served as judge in talent shows, like Philippine Idol and Philippine Dream Academy?
a. Ryan Cayabyab c. Larry Alcala
b. Ramon Muzones d. Resil Mojares

Topic 2: GAMABA and The National Artists

Time Allotment: 3 hours

Learning Objectives

At the end of the session, you will be able to:

a. Discuss the background of the GAMABA;

b. Distinguish the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan Award from National Artists Award;
and
c. Express appreciation on their contribution to the Philippine arts.

Activating Prior Learning

Name some of the Filipino local artists or national artists you know and their artworks. Complete
the matrix below.

Artist Artwork Meaning

Presentation of Content

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 Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan Awards or GAMABA is an award that acknowledges
folk and indigenous artists who, despite the modern times, remain true to their traditions. It is
administered by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through Gawad sa
Manlilikha ng Bayan Committee.
GAMABA began as a project of the Philippine Rotary Club Makati-Ayala. In 1992, it
was adopted by the government and institutionalized Republic Act No. 7355. This award aims to
support and motivate these artists to preserve their artistic heritage for the present and future
generations. These artists are also recognized as the country’s National Living Treasures.
The GAWAD sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) or the National Living Treasures
Award gives recognition to Filipino traditional craftsmen or artisans whose skills have reached a
high level of technical and artistic excellence and who are tasked to pass on to the present
generation knowledge threatened with extinction.
NCCA chairman Felipe M. de Leon , Jr. spearheaded the institutionalization of the
award. The law was authored by senators Edgardo J. Angara, Heherson Alvarez, Leticia ramos-
Shahani, SOtero Laurel and congresswoman Kate Gordon.
On April 3, 1992, President Corazon C. Aquino signed Republic Act No. 7355, providing
for the recognition of the national living treasures, otherwise known as the Manlilikha ng Bayan,
and the promotion and development of traditional folk arts.
On December 17, 1993, the first awarding ceremony for Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan
was held at the Malacaňan Palace.

How does one become a Manlilikha ng Bayan?

To become a Manlilikha ng Bayan”, the candidate must possess the following:
1. He/She is an inhabitant of an indigenous/traditional cultural community anywhere in the
Philippines that has preserved indigenous customs, beliefs, rituals and traditions and/or
has syncretized whatever external elements that have influenced it.
2. He/She must have engaged in a folk art tradition that has been in existence and
documented for at least fifty(50)years.
3. He/She must have consistently performed or produced over significant period, works of
superior and distinctive quality.
4. He/She must possess a mastery of tools and materials needed by the art, and must have an
established reputation in the arts as master and maker of works of extraordinary technical
quality.
5. He/She must have passed on and/or will pass on to other members of the community their
skills in the folk art for which the community is traditionally known.

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A traditional artist who possesses all the qualities of a Manlilikha ng Bayan candidate, but due to
age or infirmity has left him/her incapable of teaching further hi/her craft, may still be
recognized if:
1. He/She has created a significant body of works and/or has consistently displayed
excellence in the practice of his/her art, thus achieving important contributions for its
development.
2. He/She has been instrumental in the revitalization of his/her community’s artistic
tradition.
3. He/She has passed on to the other members of the community skills in the folk art for
which the community is traditionally known.
4. His/Her community has recognized him/her as master and teacher of his/her craft.

What are the incentives received by the awardee?

A Manlilika ng Bayan awardee receives a specially designed medallion, an initial grant of
P100,000 and P10.0000 monthly stipend for life. In consonance with the provision of Republic
Act No. 7355, which states that “the monetary grant may be increased whenever circumstances
so warrant, “the NCCA board approved monthly personal allowance of P14,000 for the
awardees as well as a maximum cumulative amount of P750,000 medical and hospitalization
benefit annually similar to that received by the National Artists and funeral assistance /tribute fit
for a National Living Treasure.
GAMABA Awardees

GINAW  BILOG  (+  2003),  Poet,  Hanunuo Mangyan, Panaytayan,

Oriental Mindoro, 1993
• Awarded  for  faithfully  preserving  the  Hanunuo  Mangyan  
script  and  ambalan  poetry.  
• He  has  promoted  the  local  script  and  poetry  so  that  the  art  
will  not  be  lost  but  preserved  for  posterity.  

                     

MASINO INTARAY (+ 2013), Musician and Storyteller,

Pala’wan , Brookes Point, Palawan, 1993

• He  was  awarded  for  his  exemplary  skills  in  basal  or  gong  
music  ensemble.  
• He  was  also  recognized  for  his  versatility  as  musician,  poet,  
epic  chanter  and  storyteller  of  the  kulilal  and  bagit  traditions  
of  Pala’wan.  
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LANG DULAY (+2015) , Textile Weaver,  T’boli,  Lake Sebu,

South Cotabato ,  1998

• A  T’boli  of  Lake  Sebu,  South  Cotabato,  was  awarded  for  

weaving  the  abaca  ikat  cloth  called  t’nalak.  
• She  has  produced  creations  which  remain  faithful  to  the  
T’boli  tradition  as  manifested  in  the  complexity  of  her  design,  
fineness  of  workmanship  and  quality  of  finish.  
 

SAMAON SULAIMAN (+ 2011), Musician, Magindanao,

Mama sa Pano, Maguindanao, 1993

• He  w
SALINTA as  awarded  
MONON for  his  oTutstanding  
(+ 2009),   artistry  
extile Weaver,   and  dedication  
Tagabawa,
to  Bhansalan,
Bagobo,   is  chosen  Davao
instrument,   the  M
del Sur,   agindanao  kutyapi.  
1998
• Kutyapi  is  a  two-­‐stringed  plucked  lute,  regarded  as  one  of  
She  m
• the   wost  
as  atwarded   for  dfemanding  
echnically   ully  demonstrating   the  tco  reative  
and  difficult   master  and  
expressive  
among   aspects  
Filipino   of  the  Binstrument.  
traditional   agobo  abaca  ikat  weaving  
called  inabal  at  a  time  when  such  art  is  threatened  with  
extinction.  

ALONZO SACLAG, Musician and Dancer, Kalinga

for Lubuagan, Kalinga, 2000

• A Kalinga of Lubuagan, Kalinga was awarded for his

mastery of the Kalinga dance and the performing arts.
• He was also recognized for his persistence to create
and nurture a greater consciousness and appreciation
of Kalinga culture among the Kalinga themselves and
beyond their borders.

14  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
 FEDERICO CABALLERO, Epic Chanter, Sulod-Bukidnon,
Calinog, Iloilo, 2000

• He  has  worked  hard    to  document  the  oral  literature  

of  his  people.  
• He  preserved  the  epics  that  use  a  language  that  has  
long  been  dead  by  working  together  with  scholars,  
artists,  and  advocates  of  culture.  

UWANG AHADAS, Musician, Yakan , Lamitan, Basilan, 2000

• A Yakan of Lamitan, Basilan was awared for his

dexterity in playing Yakan musical instruments such as
the kwintagan, gabbang, agung, kwintagang kayu,
tuntungan among others.
• He has a deep knowledge of the aesthetic possibilities
and social contexts of those instruments.
• In spite of the dimming of his eyesight, he has
developed devoted his life to the teaching of Yakan
musical traditions.

DARHATA SAWABI (+ 2005), Textile Weaver, Tausug,

Parang,
EDUARDOSulu, MUTUC,
2004 Metalsmith, Kapampangan , Apalit,
Pampanga , 2004
• She  is  one  of  the  master  weavers  in  the  island  of  Jolo.  
• • A  Like   most  women  
Kapampangan   in  Ctheir  
from   entral    tribe,  
Luzon  she  
is  hrecognized  
as  learned  ftor  
he  raeviving  
rt  
of  Swpanish  
the   eaving  colonial-­‐era  
the  pis  syabit,   the  
craft   of  tP
raditional  
lateria.   cloth  tapestry  
worn   a s   h ead   c over   b y   t he  
• This  self-­‐taught  master  craftsman  found   T ausu   of  Jolo,  
his  from   her  
calling   in  
mother.   religious  and  secular  art  in  silver,  bronze  and  
producing  
wood.  
• In  doing  so,  and  in  his  pursuit  of  perfection  for  himself  and  
his  apprentices,  he  assures  the  continuity  of  this  rich  
tradition.  

15  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
 HAJA AMINA APPI (+ 2013), Mat Weaver, Sama, Tandubas,
Tawi-Tawi , 2004

• She  is  recognized  as  the  master  mat  weaver  among  

the   Sama   indigenous   community   of   Ungos   Matata.  
Her   mats   are   known   for   their   complex   geometric  
patterns,   proportion,   and   unique   combination   of  
colors.  

TEOFILO GARCIA, Casque Maker, Ilocano, San Quintin, Abra,

2012

• He   learned   how   to   make   gourd   casques   and   weave  

baskets  from  his  grandfather  at  the  age  of  16.  
• Since   he   learned   the   craft,   he   never   stopped  
experimenting  with  other  designs.    
• He  previously  used  nito(vine  trimmings)  to  decorate  the  
headgear   and   then   used   with   other   materials   such   as  
bamboo  after  his  supplier  from  Cagayan  passed  away.  

16  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
 MAGDALENA GAMAYO, Textile Weaver, Ilocano, Pinili, Ilocos Norte,
2012
• She has taught herself the traditional patterns of binakol,
inuritan(geometric design), kusikos(spiral forms similar to oranges),
and sinan-sabong (flowers).
• She has learned the art of weaving from her aunt and started harnessing
her innate skills at the age of 16. She may be in her late 80s but she still
manages to arrange threads on the loom, which is the hardest task in
textile weaving.

AMBALANG AUSALIN, Textile Weaver, Yakan of Basilan, 2016,

(born 4 March 1943)

• Her skill is deemed incomparable: she is able to bring forth all

designs and actualize all textile categories typical to the Yakan.
• She can execute the suwah bekkat(cross-stitch-like
embellishment and suwah pendan(embroidery-like
embellishment) techniques of the bunga sama category.

ESTELITA BANTILAN, Mat Weaver, Sarangani, 2016, (born 17

October 1940)

• The child Labnai, already precocious in mat weaving, took on the

name Estelita in the 1960s.
• When she married, becoming Mrs. Bantilan, she raised a family in the
foreign faith. But she kept to her mat weaving. She persisted where
other women could not because her husband Tuwada was atypically
supportive.

 
YABING MASALON DULO, Ikat Weaver, 2016, (born 8 August 1914)

• She   believes   herself   older   than   ninety.   Her   identity   card   marks   that  
age,  however,  and  date  of  birth,  the  fourteenth  of  August  supposedly  
1910.  
• Since  the  venerable  ikat-­‐dyer  has  a  memory  sharper  than  blades,    it  
seems  always  best  to  follow  her  counsel.  
• In  Mindanao,  Ikat  is,  for  the  most  part,  an  extinct  form  of  art-­‐making,  
community-­‐making,  equilibrium-­‐  making.  
• But  for  Dulo,  Blaan  ikat  dyeing  is  an  extinct  form  of  human  endeavor  
in  a  world  gone  the  way  of  the  forests.  

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National Artists

If you’re given the title of National Artist, you can consider yourself one of the best. By being
given the title, it means you have given significant contributions to the development of
Philippine arts and letters. The recognition is given to those who excel in the fields of Music,
Dance, Theatre, Visual Arts, Literature, Film and Broadcast, and Architecture or Allied Arts.

The very first recipient of this award was painter Fernando Amorsolo, who was touted as the
“Grand Old Man of Philippine Art.” He was the sole awardee in the year 1972, a National Artist
for Visual Arts.

A person who receives this title gets the following honors and privileges:

1. Rank and title of National Artist, as proclaimed by the President of the Philippines;

2. Insignia of a National Artist and a citation;

3. Cash awards, monthly life pension, medical, and hospitalization benefits, life insurance
coverage, state funeral and burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery), and a
place of honor at national state functions along with recognition at cultural events

There are 66 recognized National Artists to date, with the fields of Visual Arts, Literature, and
Music having the most number of recognized National Artists.

Here are some of the more well-known National Artists of the Philippines:

Leandro V. Locsin (Architecture, 1990)

A man who believes that true Philippine Architecture “is the product of two
great streams of culture, the oriental and the occidental… to produce a new
object of profound harmony,” Leandro V. Locsin is the man responsible for
designing everything you see at CCP Complex – the Cultural Center of the
Philippines, Folk Arts Theatre, Philippine International Convention Center,
Philcite, and The Westin Hotel (now Sofitel Philippine Plaza).

  (Photo grabbed

from arkitektura.ph)

18  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
 Lino Brocka (Cinema, 1997)

Catalino “Lino” Ortiz Brocka is known to many as one of, if not the
greatest Filipino director of all time. He espoused “freedom of
expression” throughout all his films, injecting each and every one with a
social activist spirit. Some of his well-known works include Tinimbang
Ka Ngunit Kulang (1974), Maynila sa mga Kuko ng Liwanag (1975),
and Insiang (1976), the latter being the first Filipino film to be shown at
Cannes.
 

(Photo grabbed from NCCA)

Levi Celerio (Literature and Music, 1997)

Levi Celerio, a prolific lyricist and composer, is known for having

effortlessly translating or rewriting lyrics of traditional Filipino melodies
like “O Maliwanag Na Buwan” (Iloko), “Ako ay May Singsing”
(Pampango), and “Alibangbang” (Visaya). He’s also been immortalized
in the Guinness Book of World Records as the only person to make
Carlos “Botong” Francisco music
(VisualusingArts,
just a leaf.
1973)
 
Hailing from the Art Capital of the Philippines, Angono native Carlos
“Botong” Francisco is known for single-handedly reviving the modern art
of murals through works that showed slices of the past. He was such a
prolific muralist that he became its most well-known practitioner for
almost 30 years
 

(Photo grabbed from Rappler)

(Photo courtesy of NCCA via flickr)

Leonor Orosa Goquingco

Leonor Orosa Goquingco is a pioneer Filipino choreographer known to

many as “The Trailblazer,” “The Mother of Philippine Theater Dance,”
and “Dean of Filipino Performing Arts Critics.” She has produced
19   |                            choreographies
stunning                                                              during
                           her
                 50-year
                               career,
            Prepared   by:  Jomel  
highlighted byB.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  
  “Filipinescas: Philippine Life, Legend, and Love,” which elevated native
folk dance to its highest stage of development.
 Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero (Theater, 1997)

Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero is a teacher and theater artist who, in his 35 years of
teaching, has mentored some of the country’s best Filipino performing artists,
including Joy Virata and Joonee Gamboa. He is also the founder and artistic
director of the UP Mobile Theater, leading the way for the concept of a theater
campus by bringing theater closer to students and audiences in the countryside.

(Photo grabbed from NCCA via flickr)

Sionil Jose (Literature, 2001)

One of the few living national artists, F. Sionil Jose is best known for
creating the five-novel masterpiece known as the Rosales saga: Poon;
Tree; My Brother, My Executioner; The Pretenders; and Mass. Set in
the town of Rosales, Pangasinan, it talks about the five generations of
two families, the Samsons and the Asperri, during the Spanish and
American occupation.

(Photo grabbed from fsioniljose.com)

Lucrecia R. Kasilag (Music, 1989)

If you’re a fan of Filipino artists that blend Filipino ethnic and

Western music, then you should probably get to know Lucrecia R.
Kasilag. An educator, composer, performing artist, administrator,
and cultural entrepreneur, she is seen as the pioneering figure for
fusing Filipino ethnic and Western music, helping elevate Filipino’s
appreciation for music. Her best work is the prize-winning Toccata
for Percussions and Winds, Divertissement and Concertante, which
incorporates indigenous Filipino instruments.

(Photo grabbed from NCCA)

20  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
  

The 7 Newly Awarded Artists in the Philippines

The Order of National Artists is the

highest recognition given by the
government to Filipinos who have
made significant contributions to
the development of Philippine arts.
The Philippine president names
them based on the
recommendations of the National
Commission for Culture and the
Arts and the Cultural Center of the
Philippines (CCP).

The country’s 7 new National

Artists are:

1. Larry Alcala, National Artist for Visual Arts

Editorial cartoonist and illustrator Alcala’s pen brought to life the cartoon series Slice of Life in
the Weekend Magazine, Mang Ambo in the Weekly Graphic, and Kalabog en Bosyo, the first
comic strip where characters spoke in Taglish. His many works portrayed the idiosyncracies of
the Filipino, especially our ability to laugh at ourselves in the face of great adversity, as
personified in the character of Mang Ambo. The two detectives in Kalabog en Bosyo were
brought to the big screen and played by comedians Dolphy and Panchito in a film by Sampaguita
Pictures. Alcala died in 2002 at the age of 75.

2. Amelia Lapeña Bonifacio, National Artist for Theater

For her work in writing plays, promoting children’s theater, and puppetry, Bonifacio has been
called the “Grande Dame of Southeast Asian Children’s Theater.” She has penned 40 plays, 20
books, and 30 stories, according to panitikan.ph, and was chairperson of the University of the
Philippines’ Creative Writing Program. She founded Teatrong Mulat ng Pilipinas, a children’s
theater and puppetry troupe based in UP.

3. Ryan Cayabyab, National Artist for Music

“Mr C” is perhaps the most famous Filipino composer in recent history. He has composed
musical scores for award-winning films, 10 full-length Filipino musicals, full-length ballets, a
major opera, and a plethora of songs, including beloved classics like “Tuwing Umuulan at
Kapiling Ka” and “Da Coconut Nut.” A force for original Pilipino music, he has spearheaded the
Philippine Popular Music Festival and served as judge in talent shows, like Philippine Idol and
Philippine Dream Academy. He leads the 7-member Ryan Cayabyab Singers.

4. Francisco ‘Bobby’ Mañosa, National Artist for Architecture

If Mañosa is a name unknown to you, the same likely cannot be said of his iconic works. The
architect known for his modern interpretation of Philippine architectural design and use of
indigenous materials is behind the Coconut Palace, world-famous Amanpulo Resort in Palawan,

21  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
Pearl Farm in Samal Island, Shangri-La Hotel in Mactan, and the San Miguel building in
Mandaluyong, among others. For his pioneering vision and promotion of indigenous Filipino
architecture, Mañosa has garnered many accolades, both locally and internationally.

5. Resil Mojares, National Artist for Literature

Mojares is a multi-awarded writer, historian, and literary critic. His works include Origins and
Rise of the Filipino Novel, The War Against the Americans, and books about eminent Filipinos,
such as Vicente Sotto, Pedro Paterno, Isabelo delos Reyes, and Trinidad Pardo de Tavera. He has
won several National Book Awards from the Manila Critics Circle and founded the Cebuano
Studies Center, a library and research center dedicated to Cebuano culture and history.

6. Ramon Muzones, National Artist for Literature

Muzones is the preeminent name in West Visayan fiction. He is best known for his Hiligaynon
novel Margosatubig: The Story of Salagunting, about a fictional Muslim state in Mindanao and
the struggles of its hero, Salagunting, to wrest it from the clutches of usurpers. A tale that
combines intrigue, romance, pre-colonial lore, fantasy, and adventure, it unfolded as a series in
the Hiligaynon magazine Yuhum. In 1989, he received the Gawad CCP para sa Sining, an award
given every 3 years to artists whose works have enriched their art form. His proclamation as
National Artist is posthumous as Muzones died in 1992.

7. Kidlat Tahimik, National Artist for Cinema

Widely regarded as the father of independent Philippine cinema, Kidlat Tahimik (real name: Eric
de Guia) is known for creating films that humorously but evocatively critique neocolonialism. A
native of Baguio City, Tahimik has garnered numerous international and local awards for his
films. His first, Perfumed Nightmare (1977), won the International Critics Award at the Berlin
Film Festival. He has gone on to inspire generations of Filipino filmmakers to forge on with their
independent vision, regardless of commercial considerations. In 2009, he received the UP Gawad
Plaridel Award, the University of the Philippines’ highest award recognizing achievements in
media. – Rappler.com

Let’s Watch!

ABS-CBN News about the 7 Newly Proclaimed Artists in the Country

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhCQQJ675KA

22  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
 Application
1. How does an artisan or artisan be of great help in our present society?`
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. Choose one of the National Artist Awardees. Select and research one of his /her artworks
which you think have influenced or contributed much in the country.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. Adding to the list of artisans and artists, who would you like to be included? State you reasons
why?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

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 Feedback Score: _______
Date: _______
I. Read the given statement below, then identify what is being asked. Write your answer on the
blank provided before each number.
____________________1. It is the highest recognition given to Filipino individuals who have
made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.
____________________2. The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan was institutionalized
through_______________.
____________________3. It is an award that acknowledges folk and indigenous artists who,
despite the modern times, remain true to their traditions.
____________________4. He spearheaded the institutionalization of the National Living
Treasures Award.
____________________5. He was the very first recipient of being the National Artist for Visual
Arts.
____________________6. The NCCA board approved monthly personal allowance of
______________ for the Gawad sa Manlilikha awardees.
____________________7. To be a GAMABA awardee, he/she must have engaged in a folk art
tradition that has been in existence and documented for at
least________.
____________________8. He received the Gawad CCP para sa Sining, an award given every 3
years to artists whose works have enriched their art form.
____________________9. He is known for creating films that humorously but evocatively
critique neocolonialism.
___________________10. She founded Teatrong Mulat ng Pilipinas, a children’s theater and
puppetry troupe based in UP.

II. Match Column A with Colum B by writing the number of the correct answer from Column B
on the corresponding blank of Column A.

Column A Column B
1. Larry Alcala A, He was Awarded for faithfully preserving the
Hanunuo Mangyan script and ambalan poetry.
2. Ginaw Bilog B. She is best known for creating the five-novel
masterpiece known as the Rosales saga:
3. Leonor Orosa Goquingco C. He is the man responsible for designing
everything you see at CCP Complex.
4. Sionil Jose D. His many works portrayed the idiosyncrasies of
the Filipino, especially our ability to laugh at
ourselves in the face of great adversity.
5. Leandro V. Locsin E. She is a pioneer Filipino choreographer known to
many as “The Trailblazer,”
F. She has been called the “Grande Dame of
Southeast Asian Children’s Theater.”

24  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
SUMMARY UNIT

This lesson discusses the difference between artist and artisan. An artist is defined as an art
practitioner who produces or creates indirectly-functional arts with aesthetic value using
imagination, while an artisan is a craftsman who produces directly functional and or decorative
arts. He/she helps us in meeting our basic needs such as food, clothing, dwelling, furniture,
kitchen utensils. Thus, everything that makes our life easy are crafted by artisans.
The GAWAD sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) or the National Living Treasures Award
gives recognition to Filipino traditional craftsmen or artisans whose skills have reached a high
level of technical and artistic excellence and who are tasked to pass on to the present generation
knowledge threatened with extinction.
The Order of National Artists is the highest recognition given by the government to Filipinos
who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.

REFLECTION

Journal  

Name:__________________________________________________________Score:_________
Course/Year:_____________________________________________________Date:_________

One thing that I liked about this topic was_________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

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One thing that I did not like about this topic was _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

References

Retrieved from https://aboutphilippines.ph/files/Gamaba-Awardees.pdf. Accessed September 11,

2018.

Retrieved from http://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/culture-profile/gamaba/. Accessed September

12, 2018.

Retrieved  from  https://www.rappler.com/nation/214953-­‐list-­‐national-­‐artists-­‐philippines-­‐for-­‐2018.  

Accessed  February  18,  2019.  

Retrieved  from  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhCQQJ675KA. Accessed January 3, 2019.

Retrieved  from  http://primer.com.ph/tips-­‐guides/2016/07/27/whos-­‐who-­‐national-­‐artists-­‐of-­‐the-­‐

philippines/.Accessed  September  7,2018.  

26  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus  

 
  

27  |                                                                                                                                                                                     Prepared  by:  Jomel  B.  Manuel,  CSU-­‐Carig  Campus