Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 285)
The main purpose of Proclamation No. 285 is to declare the period from August 5, 2012, to August 4, 2013, as the Centennial Year of National Artist for Literature, Jose Garcia Villa, to honor and celebrate his contributions to Filipino culture and heritage.
The Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines provides for state patronage of arts and letters, which supports the declaration honoring Jose Garcia Villa as National Artist for Literature.
The category of National Artist was created to officially recognize individuals with preeminent achievements that have enhanced the Filipino cultural heritage, as first established under Proclamation No. 1001 (s. 1972).
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) are the lead agencies responsible for the Centennial Year celebration in coordination with other government agencies.
Jose Garcia Villa’s works and achievements are reflective of preeminent excellence and national genius that contributed significantly to the national heritage of the Philippines and the world.
The Centennial Year spans from August 5, 2012, to August 4, 2013.
Proclamation No. 285 was signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III and attested to by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr.
Other government agencies are enjoined to coordinate with the NCCA and CCP in celebrating the centennial birthday of Jose Garcia Villa, supporting various activities and programs.
By recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Jose Garcia Villa, the proclamation aims to promote and preserve the Filipino cultural heritage, enhancing the national identity through honoring exemplary figures in arts and letters.