LAWMAKERS on Tuesday expressed hope the Senate would pass the bill to include a national artist in the membership of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
House Bill 735, authored by Sorsogon Rep. Evelina Escudero, was passed on third and final reading at the House of Representatives before Congress went on recess last March 15.
Escudero said the bill, once enacted, shall ensure the development of policies, plans and programs of the NCCA, particularly its Sub-Commission on the Arts, which is imbued with the intellect, creativity and skill of a national artist who has been distinguished and duly recognized in the field of Arts.
The bill seeks to give further recognition to the distinct contribution and important role of a national artist in preserving and promoting the Filipino culture and arts, Escudero said.
“As a member of the NCCA, a person conferred with the rank and title of National Artist will be able to provide the necessary mindset in promoting Philippine arts and culture,” Escudero said.
The bill defines a national artist as a Filipino citizen who has been given the rank and the title of “National Artist,” in recognition of his or her significant contributions to the development of the country’s Arts and Letters.
The bill seeks to amend Section 9 of Republic Act 7356 or the “Law Creating the National Commission for Culture and the Arts,” by including as member of the NCAA a national artist who shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines.