For National Arts Month, the University of the Philippines will hold "Tanghal Tertulia" to honor three of its living National Artists on the occasion of their birthdays — Ramon P. Santos, Gemino H. Abad and Virgilio S. Almario — today, 26 February, from 4 to 7 p.m; at the Amphitheater of the UP Executive House.

"Tanghal Tertulia," intended to celebrate the lives and works of the artists, also showcases UP's pride in its role in the history and evolution of Philippine arts and culture. The University has produced 44 out of the country's 81 National Artists, and the Order of National Artists, or Orden ng mga Pambansang Alagad ng Sining, is the highest national recognition given to Filipinos who have significantly contributed to the development of Philippine arts.

University Professor Emeritus Abad became a National Artist for literature in 2022; Professor Almario (better known by his pen name "Rio Alma") was awarded for literature in 2003; and Professor Emeritus Santos was awarded for music in 2014. All three are widely recognized for their prolific contributions to the fields of education, art and literature, criticism and cultural work.

The event, with a title inspired by the Spanish concept of tertulia as a term for artistic or literary gatherings, also includes performances from other notable figures in UP's cultural scene, including Jose Dalisay Jr., Isabela Banzon, Michael Coroza, Vim Nadera and Olive Nieto as readers; and Noel Cabangon, Eman Jamisolamin, Mika Lastrilla, Raul Navarro and Hannah Osorio as musicians. There will also be presentations and performances by Dr. Verne de la Pena, the UP Concert Chorus, and Katubo, as well as the National Artists themselves.

The event is organized by the Office of the President together with Likhaan: the UP Institute of Creative Writing, the College of Music and College of Arts and Letters in UP Diliman, the Office of the Vice-President for Public Affairs (OVPPA) and TVUP.

"Tanghal Tertulia" will be available for online viewing on the TVUP accounts on: YouTube (www.youtube.com/@TVUPph) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/TVUP.ph/). Contact 0917 869 3718 (Claudette) for the link.

Limited slots due to limited seating capacity are available for UP faculty, students, staff and alumni. RSVP on a first come, first served basis at forms.gle/JQdriexw2VJJ8qbU6. Present a valid ID at the registration table at the event site.