Every so often among us Filipinos, generational talents leap up and create an indelible mark on our lives, on our history. This is best exemplified in the arts by those with inborn skills, or harnessed by discipline and hard work, tempered with dedication and devotion, who have all altered public perception, uplifted spirits, and even inspired the next generations to escape their comfort zones, challenge the impossible and fulfill their dreams.

And thus, once again, as with every three years, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the country’s main advocate of arts and culture, honored these sterling individuals with the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining distinction.

The coveted award is bestowed upon exemplars in the fields of dance, music, theater, visual arts, literature, film and broadcast arts, architecture, and design and allied arts whose styles have enriched the development of their respective fields, those who have made significant contributions to the culture of their regions, and to outstanding cultural workers.

The program was hosted by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab and internationally renowned, multi-awarded and Golden Globe and BAFTA nominated actress Dolly de Leon.