Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 386)
Proclamation No. 386 declares Virgilio S. Almario (a.k.a. Rio Alma) as National Artist for 2003 in recognition of his achievements in Literature and contributions to Filipino culture.
The proclamation is based on the constitutional provision that mandates State patronage of arts and letters.
The legal basis includes Proclamation No. 1001 dated April 27, 1972; Proclamation No. 1144 dated May 15, 1973; Presidential Decree No. 208 dated June 7, 1973; and Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of Executive Order No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987).
The President of the Republic of the Philippines has the authority to declare National Artists, based on recommendations from the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
These bodies recommend individuals for the National Artist recognition based on their achievements and contributions to Filipino culture.
The proclamation aims to recognize and acknowledge preeminent achievements that enhance Filipino cultural heritage and support the Government's policy of preserving and developing Filipino culture and national identity.
Virgilio S. Almario was recognized for his works and achievements in the field of Literature.
The award honors national genius whose works significantly contribute to the artistic heritage of the Philippines and the world, thus fostering national identity and cultural preservation.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed the proclamation.
The proclamation refers to the Constitution, Proclamation No. 1001, Proclamation No. 1144, Presidential Decree No. 208, and Executive Order No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987).
The proclamation was signed on May 26, 2003.