KORONADAL CITY — National Commission for Culture and the Arts Commissioner Reden S. Ulo called on the public to nominate traditional artists for the 2027 Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan during the fourth episode of the "SOX On The Spot" podcast.
Ulo, who serves as head of the NCCA Subcommission on Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts, joined hosts Yadu Karu and Papalem to highlight the nationwide search for the Philippines’ next National Living Treasures.
He emphasized during the interview that the recognition acts as a vital mandate for cultural preservation rather than an honorary title.
"The main purpose why we need to recognize our cultural masters is to ensure our culture does not vanish," Ulo said. "They serve as wisdom keepers who must transmit their indigenous knowledge systems and practices to the young generations."
GAMABA stands as the nation’s highest honor for masters of traditional crafts, oral traditions, and performing arts. Nominees must demonstrate exceptional technical mastery, command longstanding respect within their communities, and practice an art form that has existed for at least 50 years.
The NCCA also requires candidates to actively teach younger practitioners to preserve tangible and intangible heritage.
Region 12 currently serves as a prominent cultural hub with six GAMABA awardees. NCCA officials are encouraging community leaders, educational institutions, and cultural groups nationwide to submit candidate packages.
Nomination forms are accessible through the official NCCA Facebook page and website ahead of the Dec. 31 deadline.
The podcast episode is available for streaming on Spotify and major online platforms.
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