President Marcos has declared the period of Aug. 13, 2024 to Aug. 12, 2025 as the centennial year of Manlilikha ng Bayan Magdalena Gamayo.
Marcos made the declaration through Proclamation No. 664 with an aim to conserve and promote the mastery of Gamayo in producing intricate designs of Ilocano Abel, and her passion in keeping the traditional weaving industry alive.
Gamayo, who was declared Manlilikha ng Bayan in 2012, is the oldest living Ilocano master weaver.
According to the proclamation, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has recommended the declaration of the centennial year of Magdalena Gamayo "to promote genuine appreciation among Filipinos of the valuable and intangible cultural distinction of the Manlilikha ng Bayan."
Through the declaration, the NCCA was directed to lead, coordinate, and supervise the observance of the centennial year of Gamayo, and identify programs and projects for the celebration.
All agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, state universities and colleges, were enjoined to render necessary support and assistance to the NCCA, and to actively participate in the observance of the Centennial Year of Manlilikha ng Bayan Magdalena Gamayo.
All local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector were also encouraged to do the same.
Section 2 of Republic Act (RA) No. 7355 or the "Manlilikha ng Bayan Act" declares it a policy of the State to preserve and promote the country's traditional folk arts, whether visual, performing or literary, for their cultural value, and to honor and support traditional folk artists for their contribution to the national heritage.
The "Law Creating the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)" mandates the NCCA to extend recognition of artistic achievement through awards, grants and services to artists and cultural groups which contribute significantly to the Filipino's cultural legacy.
READ MORE: Magdalena Gamayo: Master weaver and living treasure