Marcos admin to champion PH traditional arts

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday vowed that his administration would continue to support indigenous and traditional arts of the Philippines.

Marcos made the commitment after conferring Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) to nine traditional artists who have excelled in oral tradition, embroidery, weaving, dance, and brass casting.

“Be assured that this Administration, through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, will continue to champion traditional arts, indigenous knowledge, and cultural sustainability,” Marcos said in his speech.

The President also called on Filipinos, particularly the youth sector, to take pride in the country’s own culture and arts.

“Support the continuation of the priceless legacies that have been passed on to us by our cultural masters,” Marcos said.

“It is our civic duty to keep these traditions alive—for within them lie our voice, our strength, and the very essence of our identity,” he added.

The GAMABA, created through Republic Act No. 7355, recognizes Filipino traditional artists who exemplify excellence and dedication to their craft.

The said 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 as they keep 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 community life.

The award was also given to Marife Ganahon of Bukidnon, Samporonia Madanlo of Davao Oriental, and Barbara Ofong of South Cotabato for their mastery in weaving.

In traditional dance, Hadja Sakinur-ain Delasas of Tawi-Tawi was honored for her graceful movement, which powerfully expressed the people’s culture.

Meanwhile, 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. —VAL, GMA Integrated News