1.

DARHATA SAWABI

Darhata Sawabi, a remarkable artist and cultural advocate, is a name that resonates deeply
within the realm of Philippine arts. With a career spanning several decades, Sawabi has made
significant contributions to the preservation, promotion, and advancement of traditional
Philippine art forms.

Her mastery of the traditional art of weaving has garnered her numerous accolades and
recognition, including being honored as a GAMABA Awardee. This prestigious award, given by
the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), is a testament to Sawabi's
exceptional skill and dedication to her craft.

Sawabi's artistic journey began in her hometown, where she learned the intricate techniques of
weaving from her ancestors. With passion and a deep sense of cultural pride, she honed her
skills, paying meticulous attention to every detail in her creations. Her commitment to
excellence and authenticity is evident in each meticulously woven masterpiece she produces.

Through her art, Sawabi has become a symbol of cultural heritage and tradition. She has
contributed immensely to the preservation of Philippine weaving techniques, ensuring that
these age-old practices are not forgotten in the face of modernization. Her works serve as a
bridge between the past and the present, preserving the rich tapestry of Philippine culture for
future generations.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Sawabi has also played a pivotal role in promoting awareness
and appreciation for Philippine arts. Through exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations, she
has shared her knowledge and skills with aspiring artists and enthusiasts. Her efforts have
inspired countless individuals to explore and embrace their cultural roots, fostering a sense of
pride and identity within the Philippine arts community.

Darhata Sawabi's contributions to Philippine arts extend far beyond the realm of weaving. Her
unwavering dedication and passion for preserving and promoting traditional art forms have left
an indelible mark on the country's cultural landscape. As we celebrate her achievements, let us
recognize and honor the profound impact she has made in preserving the beauty and richness
of Philippine arts.
 2. ALONZO SACLAG

Alonzo Saclag, an esteemed artist and cultural advocate, has made significant contributions to
the vibrant tapestry of Philippine arts. Born and raised in the Cordillera region, Saclag has
dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of his indigenous
Kalinga roots.

With an extensive background in traditional dance and music, Saclag has been instrumental in
revitalizing and showcasing the traditional dances of the Cordillera tribes. His passion for
preserving these cultural treasures led him to establish the Alonzo Saclag Dance Ensemble, a
renowned group that has performed both locally and internationally.

Saclag's talent and commitment to his craft have earned him numerous accolades and
recognition. Notably, he was honored as a recipient of the prestigious GAMABA (Gawad sa
Manlilikha ng Bayan) award, the highest recognition given to traditional artists in the
Philippines. This esteemed recognition highlights his exceptional skill, artistic vision, and
dedication to preserving and promoting Philippine arts.

Beyond his impressive achievements in dance, Saclag is also an accomplished visual artist and
sculptor. His artworks often depict scenes from indigenous culture, capturing the essence and
beauty of Cordillera traditions. Through his art, Saclag aims to raise awareness about the
importance of cultural preservation and the need to celebrate the diversity of Philippine arts.

As a respected figure in the field of Philippine arts, Saclag has actively participated in cultural
festivals, workshops, and conferences, both locally and internationally. His passion for sharing
his knowledge and expertise has inspired countless individuals to appreciate and embrace the
richness of Philippine indigenous arts.

Alonzo Saclag's contributions to Philippine arts extend beyond his artistic endeavors. He firmly
believes in the power of the arts to inspire social change and promote cultural understanding.
Through his work, he has become a role model and advocate for the preservation and
recognition of indigenous cultures, ensuring that their art forms continue to flourish and inspire
generations to come.
 3. LANG DULAY

Lang Dulay, a name that resonates with the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines. Born in
Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Lang Dulay was a master T'boli weaver and an inspiring figure in the
world of Philippine arts. Her extraordinary craftsmanship and dedication to preserving and
promoting traditional weaving techniques earned her the prestigious recognition of being a
GAMABA (Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan) Awardee.

Lang Dulay dedicated her life to the art of weaving, a skill passed down through generations in
the T'boli community. She meticulously wove intricate patterns and designs using indigenous
materials, such as abaca fibers and natural dyes sourced from plants and other organic sources.
Her creations were not merely fabrics but reflections of the T'boli culture and their connection
to nature.

Her contributions to Philippine arts extend beyond her skillful hands. Lang Dulay played a vital
role in keeping the T'boli weaving tradition alive. She tirelessly shared her knowledge and
expertise with younger generations, ensuring the continuity of this traditional craft. Through
her efforts, she became a beacon of inspiration and a symbol of cultural preservation.

Lang Dulay's exceptional talent and dedication did not go unnoticed. In 1998, she was
bestowed with the GAMABA award, the highest recognition given to individuals who have
made significant contributions to the traditional arts and crafts of the Philippines. This honor
not only celebrated her mastery of the craft but also acknowledged her role as a cultural
ambassador for the T'boli community.

Her legacy continues to inspire weavers and artists alike, both within the T'boli community and
beyond. Lang Dulay's influence can be seen in the resurgence of interest in traditional weaving
techniques and the integration of indigenous artistry into contemporary designs. Her
contributions have left an indelible mark on Philippine arts, reminding us of the importance of
preserving and cherishing our cultural heritage.
 4. GINAW BILOG

Ginaw Bilog, a renowned artist and cultural advocate, has made significant contributions to the
vibrant and diverse landscape of Philippine arts and culture. As we delve into her remarkable
journey, we uncover a tapestry of creativity, tradition, and resilience.

Bilog's artistic prowess spans various mediums, from visual arts to performance art and beyond.
Her works, characterized by their boldness and evocative nature, have captivated audiences
both locally and internationally. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of her
heritage, Bilog has successfully depicted the rich tapestry of Philippine culture, often
intertwining traditional motifs with contemporary expressions.

One of her notable contributions lies in her dedication to preserving and promoting indigenous
art forms. Bilog has worked closely with indigenous communities, immersing herself in their
traditions, and incorporating their narratives into her art. Through her collaborations and
mentorship, she has empowered countless indigenous artists, providing them with platforms to
showcase their talents and preserve their cultural heritage.

Moreover, Bilog's impact extends beyond her artistic creations. She has been actively involved
in cultural advocacy, championing the importance of art education and cultural preservation.
Through workshops, lectures, and community engagements, she has inspired a new generation
of artists and cultural enthusiasts, fostering a deeper appreciation for Philippine arts and
heritage.

Bilog's contributions have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades
throughout her career. One of the most prestigious recognitions she has received is the
GAMABA (Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan) Award, the highest honor given to traditional and
indigenous artists in the Philippines. This esteemed recognition further underscores her
invaluable contributions to the arts and her unwavering commitment to promoting and
preserving Philippine culture.
 5. SALINTA MONON

Salinta Monon, a talented artist and cultural advocate, has made significant contributions to
the Philippine arts scene throughout her career. Her remarkable achievements have not only
earned her recognition but also helped shape the landscape of Philippine arts.

One of the highlights of Salinta Monon's career is her mastery of the traditional art form known
as "ukkil." Ukkil is an intricate hand-weaving technique used by the T'boli tribe in Mindanao,
Philippines. Salinta Monon has not only preserved this ancient art form but also elevated it to
new heights through her innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Her ukkil creations
have been showcased in numerous exhibitions and have garnered international acclaim.

In addition to her exceptional skills in ukkil, Salinta Monon is also known for her expertise in
jewelry-making. She incorporates indigenous materials and techniques into her designs,
infusing them with cultural significance and contemporary aesthetics. Her jewelry pieces have
become highly sought after, not only for their artistic value but also for their embodiment of
Philippine heritage.

Salinta Monon's dedication to promoting cultural preservation and appreciation is evident in

her involvement in various community projects. She has actively engaged with local artisans
and indigenous communities, collaborating with them to create meaningful works of art that
celebrate their rich cultural heritage.

Her commitment to the arts has not gone unnoticed. Salinta Monon has received numerous
accolades for her contributions, including the prestigious GAMABA (Gawad sa Manlilikha ng
Bayan) award. This national recognition is a testament to her unwavering passion and
commitment to preserving and promoting Philippine arts and culture.

Salinta Monon's notable achievements in the Philippine arts scene have made her a true icon in
the industry. Her exceptional talent, innovative designs, and dedication to cultural preservation
continue to inspire and uplift both fellow artists and art enthusiasts alike. Through her work,
she has not only enriched the artistic landscape of the Philippines but also brought
international attention to its diverse and vibrant cultural heritage.