PBBM declares centennial year for master weaver Magdalena Gamayo

Ilocano master weaver Magdalena Gamayo (File Photo: Magdalena Gamayo/Facebook)

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Proclamation 664 declaring Aug. 13, 2024 to Aug. 12, 2025 as the Centennial Year of Manlilikha ng Bayan for Ilocano master weaver Magdalena Gamayo.

Under Proclamation 664 inked by Marcos on Monday, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is directed to lead, coordinate, and supervise the observance of the centennial year declaration for Gamayo, the oldest living Ilocano master weaver.

The NCCA is tasked to identify programs, activities, and projects for the year-long celebration of Gamayo’s centennial year.

All national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, state universities, and colleges, are enjoined to provide support and assistance to the NCCA.

READ: Celebrating 100th birthday of nat’l living treasure Magdalena Gamayo

All local government units are likewise encouraged to support the observance of the Centennial Year of Manlilikha ng Bayan.

The declaration was made upon the recommendation of the NCCA, through the Gawad ng Manlilikha ng Bayan Executive Council, to promote genuine appreciation among Filipinos of the valuable and intangible cultural distinction of the national living treasure.

Under Proclamation 474 issued in 2012, Gamayo has been declared the national living treasure in recognition of her mastery in producing intricate designs and inventing her own patterns of Ilocano Abel, and her passion for keeping the traditional weaving industry alive.