Erehwon Center for the Arts founder and chairman Rafael R. Benitez was conferred the Philippine Golden Leaf Presidential Award for his exceptional contributions to the Philippine arts and cultural scene, as well as for the significant impact of the Erehwon Center for the Arts in nurturing and promoting artistic talent.
The awarding took place at the 2nd Philippine Leaf Awards Tertulia at Parangal 2024 at the Metropolitan Theater Manila, on Feb. 8.
The Golden Leaf Presidential Award was also conferred on Erehwon’s Chief Artistic and Cultural Director Anton Juan, for his “groundbreaking work in theater, film, and literature, which has effectively challenged convention, and enriched our cultural tapestry with powerful visuals and thought-provoking writing.”
The Erehwon-produced and Anton Juan-directed Bayan Bayanan: Letters from Home received the Philippine Leaf Award for Outstanding Musical Ensemble, as well. Bayan Bayanan, a play adapted from the original script written by multi-awarded playwright Bienvenido Noriega, was transformed into a musical and presented by Erehwon at the Cultural Center.
The Philippine LEAF Awards is a prestigious award-giving body founded in 2017 that aims to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Filipino artists in the fields of live entertainment, performing arts, fashion, and festivals.