Following the sterling roster of National Artists, several come to mind who continue to leave indelible marks on their respective fields — though all of them have proven to be pivotal — as their legacies are honored, even more so today.

Abdulmari Imao was the first Moro to be lauded as National Artist. An erstwhile photojournalist in Mindanao, he advocated for brass and wood in his creations. He eventually became a United Nations consultant for brass-making.

Pablo S. Antonio, best known for the designs of the Manila Polo Club and the early-era homes at Forbes Park, among many others, was hailed as National Artist for architecture.

Cirilo Francisco Bautista, a National Artist for literature, is best known as a Palanca Memorial Awards Hall of Famer. He stands as the sole Filipino honorary degree recipient from the International Program of the University of Iowa, United States.