Establishment of the National Artist Category
- The title of National Artist was formally created under Proclamation No. 1001 dated April 27, 1972.
- This category is designed to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to Philippine arts and culture.
Government Policy on Cultural Heritage
- The State acknowledges preeminent achievements that enhance Filipino cultural heritage.
- Recognition serves the policy of preserving and developing Filipino culture and national identity.
Grounds for Declaration of Jose T. Joya as National Artist
- Jose T. Joya’s works and achievements in Visual Arts, particularly painting, exemplify preeminent excellence.
- His contributions represent national genius that enriches both Philippine and global artistic heritage.
Legal Authority and Process for Declaration
- The power to declare National Artists is vested in the President by the Constitution and existing laws.
- Such declarations are made upon recommendations from the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
- Proclamation No. 1001 (as amended) and Presidential Decree No. 208, along with Section 20, Chapter 7, Title I, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987, provide the legal framework for such declarations.
Formal Proclamation and Effect
- The law culminates in the formal proclamation signed by the President and countersigned by the Executive Secretary.
- This proclamation legally confers the title of National Artist to the late Jose T. Joya for the year 2003.
- The official act includes the affixing of the seal of the Republic of the Philippines, symbolizing governmental recognition and honor.