Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 435)
The main purpose of EO No. 435 is to amend Section 5 (IV) of Executive Order No. 236 to harmonize the procedure for awarding the Order of National Artists in accordance with existing laws and to clarify the order of precedence of honors conferred in the Philippines.
EO No. 236 nationalized the roster of civil awards and decorations of the Philippines to ensure consistent criteria in conferring honors, preserve the integrity and prestige of awards, clarify the order of precedence of honors, in line with internationally accepted norms and practices.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) are responsible for advising the President on the conferment of the Order of National Artists.
The amendment harmonizes EO No. 236 with Proclamation No. 1001 as amended by Proclamation No. 1144, Presidential Decree No. 208, Republic Act No. 7356, and Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of Executive Order No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987).
It is the highest national recognition conferred upon Filipinos who have made distinct contributions to the development and promotion of Philippine culture and the arts.
The National Artist for Historical Literature, created under Executive Order No. 451 dated October 9, 1997, is included under the Order of National Artists.
The amendment took effect immediately upon its signing on June 8, 2005.
Recognizing National Artists gives due recognition to their valuable contributions to the cultural heritage of the country and encourages the spirit of excellence in the arts and letters.
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed Executive Order No. 435 as President of the Philippines.
Although not elaborated in detail in the EO, the Order of National Social Scientists honors individuals who have made significant contributions in the field of social sciences in the Philippines.