National Artists of the Philippines

National Artist Award Overview

• Highest distinction in the Philippines recognizing individuals in the arts.
• Recognizes contributions across various disciplines including visual arts, dance, literature, music, and architecture.

National Artists in Visual Arts

• Fernando Amorsolo: First National Artist, awarded on April 27, 1972.
• Carlos Botong Francisco: Known muralist from Angono.
• Victorio C. Edades: Recognized as the Father of Modern Philippine Painting.
• Vicente S. Manansala: Notable for his exploration of cubism.
• Jeremias Elizalde Navarro: Celebrated for versatility in artistic styles.
• Vose T. Joya: Advocate of Philippine Abstract Expressionism, worked across both painting and sculpture.
• Cesar Legaspi: Labeled as a cubist-inspired artist.

National Artists for Sculpture

• Guillermo E. Tolentino: Acknowledged as the Father of Classical Sculpture.
• Napoleon Abueva: Recognized as the Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture.
• Hernando Ocampo: Utilized bold colors and biomorphic forms.
• Arturo Luz: Known for minimalist techniques in painting and sculpture.
• Ang Kiukok: Noted for his expressionist style.
• Benedicto Cabrera (BenCab): Celebrated for figurative works.
• Abdulmari Asia Imao: Multifaceted sculptor and painter.
• Federico Aguilar Alcuaz: Distinguished in cubist painting.
• Francisco V. Coching: Influential comic artist in the Philippines.

National Artist for Dance

• Francisca Reyes Aquino: Recognized as the Mother of Philippine Folk Dance.
• Alice Reyes: Known for blending indigenous dance with ballet and modern dance styles.

National Artists for Literature

• Ramon Obusan: Acclaimed choreographer, dancer, and researcher.
• Jose Garcia Villa: Key figure in modern poetry.
• Carlos Quirino: First National Artist in Historical Literature, worked on Jose Rizal's contributions.
• Nick Joaquin: Influential writer focusing on Filipino culture and identity.
• Amando V. Fernandez: Notable poet, playwright, and novelist.

National Artists for Music

• Lucio San Pedro: Prominent for his romantic compositions.
• Felipe Padilla de Leon: Translated the Philippine National Anthem.
• Levi Celerio: Famous for music played using a leaf.
• Antonio Molina: Renowned as a leading Filipino composer.
• Ryan Catabian (Mr. C): Notable for contributions to Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
• Kidlat Tahimik: Influential in film, cinema, and broadcast art.

National Artists in Architecture and Theater

• Juan Nakpil: First National Artist for Architecture, termed the Dean of Filipino Architecture.
• Ramon Valera: Sole Filipino recognized as a National Artist in fashion.
• Honorata “Atang” Dela Rama: Pioneered in Filipino theater.
• Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero: Acclaimed playwright, director, and educator.
• Daisy Avellana: Co-founder of Barangay Theater.
• Severino “Noy” Montano: Founder of the arena theater.

Benefits and Awards for National Artists

• One-time financial grant of ₱200,000.
• Monthly financial assistance of ₱150,000.
• ₱750,000 medical insurance coverage.
• Additional benefits for eligible recipients, totaling ₱150,000.
• ₱150,000 death benefit for families of deceased National Artists.