Various Art Forms Found in Region III The Shrine of Valor at Mt.

Samat serves as a poignant

reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.
Tarlac: Belenismo sa Tarlac The grandeur of the memorial, with its colonnade and
The Belenismo event, spearheaded by the Tarlac striking memorial cross, not only honors history but also
Heritage Foundation, is a compelling example of local embodies the resilience of the Filipino spirit. The artistic
artistry. The initiative encourages the use of indigenous architecture and design of the shrine contribute to a
and recyclable materials, turning the traditional deep sense of national pride and remembrance.
Christmas Nativity scene into a sustainable art form.
The illuminated Belens, best viewed at night, transform
the landscape into a mesmerizing spectacle, firmly Philippine Artists and Their Contributions to
establishing Tarlac as the Belen Capital of the Contemporary Arts
Philippines. This event not only fosters creativity but
also instills a sense of pride among Tarlaqueños, Notable Artists and Their Contributions
reinforcing community bonds. Music
Nueva Ecija: Rice Fields of Nueva Ecija -Antonino R. Buenaventura (1988) Folk music
Known as the "Food Bowl" of Central Luzon, Nueva researcher; works include Pandanggo sa Ilaw.
Ecija's agricultural heritage is a vital part of its identity. - José Montserrat Maceda (1997): Focused on
The vast rice fields are not just a source of livelihood traditional music; notable works: Ugma-ugma.
but also an art form in themselves, showcasing the
harmony between man and nature. The province’s rich - Lucrecia R. Kasilag (1989): Fused Western and ethnic
agricultural output, including rice and various music; significant pieces: Legend of the Sarimanok.
vegetables, illustrates a unique blend of tradition and - Ernani J. Cuenco (1999): Influential composer of film
sustenance that highlights the essential role of farming scores and themes; famous for Inang Bayan.
in Filipino culture.
- Levi Celerio (1997): Renowned lyricist and composer;
Pampanga: Giant Lantern Festival created Ako ay May Singsing.
The Ligligan Parul festival is a dazzling display of - Francisco Feliciano (2014:Noted for bringing Asian
Kapampangan artistry and craftsmanship. Originating in elements to music; key works: La Loba Negra.
the early 1900s, this century-old tradition brings
communities together through the creation of giant Dance
lanterns adorned with vibrant colors and intricate
- Francisca Reyes-Aquino (1973): Pioneer of Philippine
designs. The festival not only celebrates Christmas but
folk dance; published influential works.
also honors local heritage and history, making it a
significant cultural event that showcases the ingenuity - Ramon Arevalo Obusan (2006): Choreographer and
and festive spirit of the region. researcher; known for Kayaw series.
Aurora: Natural Attractions - Alice Reyes (2014): Developed modern dance idiom;
significant works include *Rama Hari*.
Aurora’s pristine beaches and historical landmarks
provide a canvas for both natural beauty and cultural Theater
storytelling. The accessibility of its attractions fosters an
appreciation for both nature and history, particularly - Daisy H. Avellana (1999): First Lady of Philippine
with its connections to national figures like Manuel L. Theater; founded Barangay Theater Guild.
Quezon. The blend of historical context with natural - Rolando S. Tinio (1997: Influential playwright and
splendor creates a unique space for both relaxation and director; notable works: *Sitsit sa Kuliglig*.
reflection.
- Honorata “Atang” Dela Rama (1987): Queen of
Zambales: Mango Festival Kundiman; significant contributions to sarswela.
Iba, Zambales, hosts the Dinamulag Festival, celebrating Visual Arts
the region's claim to the world’s sweetest mangoes.
This festival is not only a gastronomic delight but also a - Fernando Amorsolo: First National Artist in Painting;
vibrant cultural event that promotes local agriculture known for rural landscapes and backlighting techniques.
and community engagement. The festival’s festive
- Cesar Legaspi: A key figure in Philippine modern art;
atmosphere and emphasis on local produce highlight
refined cubism for local context.
the importance of agriculture in Zambales’ cultural
identity. - Benedicto Cabrera: Known for contemporary art;
famous for the subject "Sabel".
Bulacan: Pastillas de Leche Wrapper
- Guillermo Tolentino: Master sculptor; created UP
The intricate art of pabalat, or pastillas wrappers,
Oblation and monuments of national heroes.
exemplifies how traditional crafts can evolve into
popular art forms. This art reflects the everyday life and
Reviewer: Contemporary Philippine Arts from the
cultural narratives of Bulacan's people. The annual
Regions
Pastillas Festival has successfully elevated this folk
tradition, showcasing local talent and promoting
cultural appreciation through its beautiful papercut Gawad sa Manlilikhang Bayan and Their Contribution
designs. to Philippine Arts

Bataan: Mt. Samat Introduction

The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA),  A monthly stipend of ₱10,000 for life.
established through Republic Act No. 7355 in 1992,  Additional allowances as needed, and
serves as a crucial platform for recognizing the artistry substantial medical benefits.
of traditional Filipino craftsmen and artists. This award  A funeral assistance program.
not only highlights the richness of our cultural heritage
but also promotes the transfer of traditional skills to Categories of Traditional Arts
future generations, thereby ensuring the survival of
unique folk arts across the Philippines. GAMABA recognizes a wide range of artistic
expressions, including:
Historical Context
 Folk architecture
The inception of GAMABA traces back to the 1988  Weaving and carving
National Folk Artists awards initiated by the Rotary  Performing arts
Organization in Ayala-Makati. This recognition set the  Literature
stage for a more structured appreciation of outstanding  Graphic and plastic arts
Filipino artists, primarily in music and poetry. By  Textile or fiber art
institutionalizing the GAMABA, the National  Pottery
Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has
underscored the importance of preserving diverse Prominent Awardees
cultural traditions that define Filipino identity.
Notable figures among the awardees include:
Significance of GAMABA
 Ginaw Bilog: A Hanunuo Mangyan poet known
The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan acknowledges artists for preserving the "ambahan," a traditional
from various indigenous and traditional communities seven-syllable poetic form.
who have sustained their crafts over generations. This  Masino Intaray: A musician from Palawan,
initiative not only honors their contributions but also celebrated for his mastery in various traditional
emphasizes the importance of folk arts in visualizing the instruments and storytelling.
Philippines as a culturally rich nation. The selection  Alonzo Saclag: A Kalinga dancer who
process for GAMABA awardees is meticulous, ensuring established the Kalinga Budong Dance Troupe,
that only those with exceptional skills and a deep promoting local cultural heritage.
commitment to their craft are recognized.  Samaon Sulaiman: A Maguindanaoan musician
recognized for his expertise in traditional
Criteria for QualificationTo be considered a "Manlilikha instruments like the kutyapi.
ng Bayan," artists must meet several criteria:

1. Cultural Community: They must belong to a

community that preserves indigenous customs
and traditions.
2. Tradition Longevity: Their folk art must have
been practiced for at least fifty years.
3. Quality of Work: Consistent production of
superior works is essential.
4. Mastery of Craft: They must demonstrate
mastery of tools and materials.
5. Skill Transfer: They should actively pass on their
skills to others in their community.

Selection Process

The selection of GAMABA awardees involves an

extensive evaluation process:

1. An Ad Hoc panel conducts searches across

regions.
2. Candidates are documented based on
established criteria.
3. The nominees undergo further scrutiny by an
Ad Hoc Panel of Reviewers.
4. Recommendations are submitted to the NCCA
Board for final approval.

Rewards for the Awardees

Being named a "Manlilikha ng Bayan" comes with

significant recognition and rewards:

 A specially designed gold medallion.

 An initial grant of ₱100,000.