DAVAO CITY — The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan has officially opened its call for nominations, with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts holding its third and final press conference in Davao City on October 9, 2026. The awards represent the Philippines' highest honor for indigenous traditional artists.
A Legacy of Cultural Excellence
Established under Republic Act 7355 in 1992, the GAMABA recognizes Filipino artists who have attained exceptional mastery in traditional and indigenous folk arts. More than a recognition, the award honors those who continue to pass their knowledge and practices to their communities. It embodies the nation's commitment to preserving living cultural treasures.
The award serves as a vital link connecting the past, present, and future of Filipino cultural heritage. By honoring master artisans, the program ensures that traditional knowledge survives and thrives across generations.
Mindanao Leads in Awardees
University of the Philippines-Tacloban professor Joycie Dorado Alegre, a member of the GAMABA Executive Council, noted that Mindanao has the highest number of awardees nationwide. Sixteen come from Mindanao, eight from Luzon, and only one from the Visayas throughout the program's 33-year history.
Alegre emphasized the importance of nominating more cultural masters from the Visayas region. She described GAMABA awardees as vital connectors who thread the nation's cultural heritage from the past into the future.
Honoring Davao's Cultural Masters
Davao City Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre called on barangay leaders, deputy mayors representing the city's 11 ethnolinguistic groups, private organizations, schools, and indigenous communities to identify deserving National Living Treasures. He stressed the urgency of recognizing cultural masters while they are still able to share their knowledge.
Alejandre urged the community not to wait until these cultural icons are gone before appreciating their value. The Davao leg drew NCCA officials, GAMABA executive council members, and several awardees, including Estelita Bantilan, Samporonia Madanlo, and Marife Ganahon.
Prestigious Benefits and Recognition
The GAMABA awards undergo a rigorous search and selection process. Awardees receive the rank of Manlilikha ng Bayan, a gold-plated medallion from the Bangko Sentral, a P300,000 cash award, and a lifetime monthly allowance of P50,000. They also receive an annual P750,000 allocation for hospitalization and medical expenses.
Additional privileges include a state funeral and a place of honor during state events. For group awardees, an initial P500,000 cash award is provided. These benefits reflect the state's deep appreciation for cultural bearers.
How to Nominate
Qualified nominators include non-government organizations, government agencies, local government units, academic institutions, and church or religious groups. Nomination dossiers may be submitted physically or virtually to the GAMABA secretariat, NCCA Awards and Recognition Office.
Submissions may be sent to 633 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, or via email at [email protected]. Nominations must be submitted on or before December 21, 2026. This is a rare opportunity to honor the artisans who keep Filipino traditions alive.
