Working at the Cultural Center of the Philippines has introduced me to a world filled with talented and passionate individuals and groups, whose dedication to their art forms is truly commendable and inspiring.
Among these creative and artistic people, some have risen above the rest, leaving their mark through their outstanding works and significant contributions to Philippine artistic communities.
Many of them deserve recognition and celebration. The Cultural Center of the Philippines honors these individuals and groups through the prestigious Gawad CCP Para sa Sining 2024, the highest award given by CCP to artists or groups in dance, music, theater, film and broadcast arts, literature, visual arts, architecture, and allied arts and design, who have consistently produced outstanding works or developed a distinct style or technique that enriches their particular art form.
The award also recognizes artists or groups who have made significant contributions to the culture of their region of birth or residence, as well as cultural workers who, through their work in research, curatorship, arts management, or administration, have contributed to the development or enrichment of specific art forms or Philippine culture as a whole.
The selection process is rigorous, beginning with nominations from within the CCP. The nominations are carefully examined, and after an intensive process, the finalists are presented to the CCP Board of Trustees (BOT). The awardees are then chosen through a final vote by the trustees after thorough deliberation.
This year, the CCP BOT selected eight artists for Category A, a choir for Category B, a cultural worker for Category C, and two posthumous Tanging Parangal awardees.
The awardees for Category A include Generoso “Gener” Caringal, recognized for his choreographic works that integrate ballet, modern dance, and folk dance, enriching the development of Philippine dance.
Jose Iñigo Homer “Joey” Ayala is honored for his work as a composer, songwriter, and singer, popularizing the use of indigenous musical instruments in contemporary music, and contributing significantly to the evolution of Philippine music.
Maria Lea Carmen Salonga is celebrated for her unparalleled achievements as a performing artist, earning recognition both nationally and internationally, placing the Philippines on the global theater map.
Jose F. Lacaba is recognized for his outstanding contributions as a poet, essayist, screenwriter, and journalist, enhancing the development of Philippine literature.
Although Miguel “Mike” De Leon declined the award, he is noted for his work as a director, writer, producer, and cinematographer, which advanced filmmaking in the country.
Mario O’Hara, honored posthumously, is acknowledged for his exceptional work as a director, actor, and writer, enriching film and broadcast arts in the Philippines.
Julie Lluch is recognized for her terracotta sculptures that reflect the wisdom gained from her life roles, initiating a resurgence in Philippine art.
Gino Gonzales is honored for his innovative use of non-conventional materials and his promotion of the Philippine Terno.
The Loboc Children’s Choir, awarded in Category B, is celebrated for its performances that promote Bohol’s heritage, using its music to strengthen and preserve local culture and the Filipino identity.
Marilyn Gamboa, the Category C awardee, is acknowledged for her significant contributions as a cultural administrator, sustaining cultural institutions and programs in Negros Occidental, enriching both Negrense and Philippine culture.
Senator Edgardo J. Angara and Zenaida “Nedy” R. Tantoco will receive the posthumous Tanging Parangal ng CCP, which honors individuals or organizations for their outstanding contributions to the development and support of the arts and cultural activities.
Angara, affectionately known as SEJA, was a strong advocate for Philippine culture and the arts, while Tantoco’s philanthropic efforts greatly benefited CCP, its resident companies, and employees. As a CCP Trustee, she raised funds for new musical instruments and ensured their regular maintenance.
The awarding ceremony is set for Sep. 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, coinciding with the CCP’s 55th anniversary.
