Week 8

Lesson 6: Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA)

What is It?

Media and Recognition: Today, media helps people learn about artists and their contributions to Filipino culture. These artists, who are often unsung heroes, continue to preserve and promote traditional art forms.

Cultural Heritage: The Philippines' rich culture, passed down from pre-Spanish ancestors, is preserved by indigenous artists who continue to keep Filipino traditions alive.

GAMABA Overview: The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) award is given to Filipino artists who excel in traditional arts and pass on their skills to future generations.

Legal Framework

• Republic Act No. 7355 (1992): This law recognizes Filipino citizens who excel in traditional arts, preserving their cultural contributions for future generations.
• National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA): The NCCA is responsible for promoting and protecting Filipino cultural heritage and recognizing outstanding traditional artists.

GAMABA Awardees and Their Contributions

1993 Awardees

• Ginaw Bilog: Preserved Mangyan poetry (Ambahan).
  • Region: MIMAROPA
• Masino Intaray: Master storyteller and epic chanter.
  • Region: MIMAROPA
• Samaon Sulaiman: Expert in playing the kutiyapi and other instruments.
  • Region: BARMM

1998 Awardees

• Lang Dulay: Preserved T’nalak weaving from abaca fibers.
  • Region: SOCCSKSARGEN
• Salinta Monon: Known for Inabal (Bagobo) weaving.
  • Region: Davao Region

2000 Awardees

• Uwang Ahadas: Master of Yakan musical instruments.
  • Region: BARMM
• Federico Caballero: Preserved the Sugidanon Epic of Panay Bukidnon.
  • Region: Western Visayas
• Alonzo Saclag: Master of Kalinga musical instruments and dance.
  • Region: CAR

2004 Awardees

• Hajja Amina Appi: Renowned for mat weaving.
  • Region: BARMM
• Eduardo Mutuc: Famous for metal art and religious works.
  • Region: Central Luzon
• Darhata Sawabi: Preserved pis syabit weaving.
  • Region: BARMM

2012 Awardees

• Magdalena Gamayo: Master of Abel weaving.
  • Region: Ilocos Region
• Teofilo Garcia: Expert in tabúngaw (gourd) hat making.
  • Region: CAR

2016 Awardees

• Ambalang Ausalin: Known for Yakan weaving techniques.
  • Region: BARMM
• Estelita Tumandan Bantilan: Skilled in B’laan mat weaving.
  • Region: SOCCSKSARGEN
• Yabing Masalon Dulo: B’laan Ikat fabric weaving.
  • Region: SOCCSKSARGEN

Key Takeaways

• Republic Act No. 7355 recognizes and preserves Filipino traditional arts.
• NCCA oversees the recognition of these artists, helping ensure that their knowledge and art are passed down.
• GAMABA Awardees: 16 individuals who have made significant contributions to traditional Filipino arts, keeping cultural practices alive.

Summary

The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) is an important recognition for Filipino traditional artists who excel in preserving and promoting Filipino culture. These awardees are often masters in various arts, from weaving and music to storytelling. Through the Manlilikha ng Bayan Act, these artists' work is acknowledged and celebrated, ensuring that their skills and cultural knowledge are passed on for generations to come. The NCCA plays a key role in identifying and supporting these remarkable individuals who continue to enrich the Philippines' cultural heritage.