President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday conferred the Presidential Medal of Merit — one of the highest civilian distinctions in the country — on four exceptional Filipinas who passed away earlier this year, recognizing their immense contributions to Philippine culture and national pride.

The posthumous honors were given to screen legends Nora Aunor and Gloria Romero, renowned singer Pilita Corrales, and award-winning chef-restaurateur Margarita Forés. Their children and grandchildren received the awards during a ceremony at Malacañang Palace, where family members and close friends gathered to celebrate their legacies.

The Presidential Medal of Merit, as provided under Executive Order No. 236, is awarded to individuals who have brought prestige to the Philippines through achievements in international events in fields such as literature, the sciences, arts, entertainment, and other civilian endeavors that foster national pride and excellence.

Each of the honorees left behind a lasting imprint in her respective field.

Nora Aunor, declared a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022, was widely celebrated for her body of work in Philippine cinema — one of the most extensive in the industry — and for the multitude of accolades she received both locally and abroad. She died just days after the passing of another icon, Asia’s Queen of Songs, Pilita Corrales.

Corrales, who enjoyed a career spanning six decades, was known for her powerful voice, unique stage presence — including her iconic backbend or liyad — and multilingual discography of 135 albums. Her influence extended across generations of Filipino musicians.

The nation also mourned the loss of Gloria Romero in January. Revered as the "First Lady of Philippine Cinema," Romero starred in more than 250 films and television shows throughout her prolific career. Her most memorable performances include Dalagang Ilocana (1954), Nagbabagang Luha (1988), and Tanging Yaman (2000).

Meanwhile, Margarita Forés, named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, was recognized for elevating Filipino cuisine on the world stage. She managed several successful restaurants and frequently prepared meals for high-profile guests, including visiting dignitaries. She passed away in February.

During the ceremony, President Marcos praised the four women not only for their accomplishments, but for how they embodied the Filipino spirit in their work.

“To Gloria, to Margarita, to Pilita, to Nora — this may seem a small gesture, but it is the best we can offer. Maraming, maraming salamat po,” the President said. “You live on in every artist who dares to dream, in every child inspired by your work, and in every Filipino who seeks to show the world the beauty of our identity.”

“They are icons, yes, but more than that, the essence of their artistry came from the depth of their being Filipino,” he added. “Through their lifelong contributions, they enriched our understanding of ourselves and brought Philippine culture to the global stage.”