Celebrities recommended for National Artists by their peers, organizations, and netizens, (from left) Vilma Santos, Dolphy, Eddie Garcia, and Lea Salonga | Image: Instagram/@rosavilmasantosrecto, @msleasalonga/FILE PHOTOS After receiving her Gawad CCP award and having a Madame Tussauds wax figure in Singapore, Lea Salonga is being primed as a possible recipient of the prestigious Order of National Artists — an accolade that the film, TV and theater artist graciously turned down in favor of her more senior colleague, the late Comedy King, Dolphy. But while Salonga’s contribution to the art scene is nothing to sneer at, she nonetheless pointed out that the ace comedian is more worthy of the National Artist title than herself, saying his recognition is “long overdue.” Indeed, as the Order of National Artists is considered the highest honor given to Filipino individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of Philippine arts, the recognition must be bestowed on nominees whose body of work transcends all ages.
The national recognition is awarded in seven categories — music; dance; theater; contemporary arts; literature; architecture, design and allied arts; and, film and broadcasting/broadcast arts. The CCP (Cultural Center of the Philippines) and NCCA (National Commission for Culture and the Arts) said a nominee should only be nominated in one category, where an artist made his or her “most substantial contribution.” Other merits can be added to the.