FPJ: Aquino Confers National Artist Award (Posthumous) - Details!
Is true artistry ever truly forgotten? The legacy of Fernando Poe Jr., the "King of Philippine Movies," endures, solidifying his place as a national treasure. Decades after captivating audiences, his contributions to Philippine cinema were formally recognized with the highest honor the nation can bestow.
In a poignant ceremony held at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacaan Palace, President Benigno Aquino III conferred the Order of National Artists for Cinema (posthumous) upon the late Ronald Allan Kelley Poe, the man universally known as Fernando Poe Jr., or simply, FPJ. Accepting the honor on his behalf was his wife, the esteemed actress Susan Roces, a figure whose own grace and dignity mirrored the respect held for her late husband. The conferment, a culmination of years of advocacy and recognition, underscored the profound impact Poe Jr. had not only on the film industry but also on the cultural identity of the Philippines.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ronald Allan Kelley Poe |
| Popular Name | Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) |
| Birth Date | August 20, 1939 |
| Death Date | December 14, 2004 |
| Birth Place | Manila, Philippines |
| Spouse | Susan Roces |
| Children | Ronnie Poe, Lovi Poe, Mary Grace Llamanzares |
| Occupation | Actor, Director, Producer, Writer |
| Years Active | 1950 - 2004 |
| Genre | Action, Drama |
| Notable Films | Lo Waist Gang (1955), Mga Alamat ni Robin Hood (1969), Durando (1994), Apoy sa Dibdib ng Samar (1992), Isang Bala Ka Lang! (1983), Ang Panday (1980) |
| Awards | FAMAS Award for Best Actor (multiple), National Artist for Cinema (posthumous) |
| Political Involvement | Ran for President of the Philippines in 2004 |
| Reference Link | Fernando Poe Jr. at IMDb |
The formal declaration was solidified through Proclamation No. 435, officially released by Malacaang on July 27th, confirming the initial appointment of FPJ as a National Artist for Films back in 2006. This proclamation served as the definitive legal affirmation of a recognition long held in the hearts of the Filipino people.
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The essence of the proclamation, as articulated by President Aquino III, echoes the sentiment of a nation acknowledging its artistic giants: "Pursuant to the authority vested in me by law, I, Benigno Aquino III, President of the Philippines, do hereby confirm the declaration of Ronald Allan K. (posthumous) as National Artist as conferred in Proclamation No. 1069, dated May 23, 2006."
This conferment wasn't merely a ceremonial gesture; it was a profound acknowledgment of Poe Jr.'s extensive contributions to Philippine cinema. His films resonated deeply with the masses, often portraying themes of justice, heroism, and the struggles of the common Filipino. From his iconic role in "Ang Panday," where he embodied a blacksmith-turned-hero, to his portrayal of everyday individuals facing extraordinary circumstances, Poe Jr. captured the spirit of the nation.
The significance of this recognition was not lost on those closest to him. Susan Roces, accepting the award with a mixture of pride and poignant remembrance, conveyed the family's gratitude. Their daughter, Mary Grace Llamanzares, also stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of her father, a man whose influence extended far beyond the silver screen.
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The journey to this momentous occasion, however, was not without its complexities. The initial declaration of Poe Jr. as a National Artist in 2006 was met with some controversy, highlighting the intricate interplay between art, politics, and public opinion. Yet, the subsequent confirmation by President Aquino III underscored the enduring merit of Poe Jr.'s artistic contributions, transcending any previous debates.
The conferment ceremony itself was described as a grand affair, befitting the stature of the honoree. According to reports from Inquirer.net, the event was one of the largest of its kind, drawing dignitaries, celebrities, and admirers from all walks of life. The sheer scale of the ceremony reflected the profound impact Poe Jr. had on Philippine society, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
President Aquino, in his address, eloquently captured the essence of Poe Jr.'s appeal: "From his struggles in Alamat ng Lawin to being a defender in Ang Panday, he is a hero to the Filipino masses." These words encapsulated the enduring connection between the actor and his audience, a bond forged through shared values, aspirations, and a deep-seated love for the Philippines.
Beyond the accolades and formal pronouncements, the true measure of Fernando Poe Jr.'s legacy lies in the hearts of the Filipino people. His films continue to be watched and celebrated, his characters continue to inspire, and his name remains synonymous with Philippine cinema. The Order of National Artists is not just an award; it is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to the art of storytelling, a recognition of the power of cinema to shape culture and reflect the soul of a nation.
Malacaang, in the lead-up to the conferment, emphasized the importance of separating the recognition from any political undertones. The focus, they stressed, should remain on Poe Jr.'s artistic merits and his invaluable contributions to Philippine culture. This plea underscored the desire to honor his memory with the respect and dignity he deserved.
The National Artist Award, as a whole, stands as the highest form of recognition bestowed upon Filipino artists. It is a celebration of excellence, a tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to shaping the cultural landscape of the Philippines. Recipients of this prestigious award receive not only the title itself but also a monthly pension and other benefits, ensuring their well-being and continued contribution to the arts.
Currently, the Philippines recognizes 66 National Artists, representing a diverse range of disciplines, including visual arts, literature, music, architecture, and film. Among the luminaries are architects Leandro Locsin and Lino Brocka, the latter a renowned film director whose works challenged conventions and pushed the boundaries of Philippine cinema.
The National Artist Award is more than just a symbol of achievement; it is a reflection of the values and aspirations of the Filipino people. It recognizes those whose work embodies the spirit of the nation, those who have used their talents to inspire, to educate, and to uplift. The Order of National Artists of the Philippines, or "Orden ng mga Pambansang Alagad ng Sining ng Pilipinas" in Tagalog, is a testament to the power of art to shape society and to preserve cultural heritage.
President Aquino's decision to confer the National Artist Award on Fernando Poe Jr. was a recognition of this enduring legacy, a formal acknowledgment of what the Filipino people already knew in their hearts: that FPJ was, and remains, a true icon of Philippine cinema, a National Artist in every sense of the word.
The event, captured in photographs by Jay Morales of Malacaang, immortalized the moment when the nation formally embraced its "King." Susan Roces, accepting the award with grace and quiet strength, embodied the spirit of a woman honoring her husband's memory. Her presence, along with that of her daughter, served as a powerful reminder of the human connection that underlies all great art.
The resolution urging President Aquino to bestow this honor reflected a groundswell of support for Poe Jr.'s recognition. It was a testament to the collective desire of the Filipino people to see their hero formally acknowledged for his contributions to the nation's cultural heritage.
And while obituaries and career retrospectives often focused on his on-screen persona, the National Artist Award acknowledged the depth and breadth of his artistic vision. He was not just an actor; he was a director, a writer, a producer, a storyteller who used his craft to connect with audiences on a profound level.
From the archived articles detailing his presidential bid to the poignant photos of his funeral, Fernando Poe Jr.'s life was one lived in the public eye. He was a figure who transcended the boundaries of entertainment, becoming a symbol of hope and aspiration for many Filipinos.
The GMA News.TV report on Susan Roces leading the rites for FPJ's death anniversary serves as a reminder of the enduring love and respect that continues to surround his memory. Even in death, his influence remains palpable, his legacy secure.
The information available on Fernando Poe Jr.'s biography, profile, and awards history further illuminates the scope of his accomplishments. He was a man who dedicated his life to his craft, constantly striving for excellence and using his platform to tell stories that resonated with the Filipino people.
The statement from Malacaang urging that the awarding of the National Artist Award be spared any political intrigue was a necessary reminder of the importance of honoring art for its own sake. Fernando Poe Jr.'s contributions to Philippine cinema deserve to be celebrated without the shadow of political maneuvering.
In 2012, President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III fulfilled the promise of recognizing Fernando Poe Jr.'s artistic merit, solidifying his place among the pantheon of Filipino National Artists. This act was not just a political decision; it was an affirmation of the enduring power of art to transcend boundaries and to unite a nation.
The late action king, as he was affectionately known, left an indelible mark on Philippine cinema. His films entertained, inspired, and challenged audiences, reflecting the hopes and dreams of a nation striving for a better future. The National Artist Award is a fitting tribute to his legacy, a testament to the enduring power of his art.
President Aquino's conferment of the National Artist Award on Fernando Poe Jr. was a moment of national pride, a recognition of the profound impact one man had on the cultural landscape of the Philippines. His films continue to be watched and celebrated, his characters continue to inspire, and his name remains synonymous with Philippine cinema. The Order of National Artists is not just an award; it is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to the art of storytelling, a recognition of the power of cinema to shape culture and reflect the soul of a nation. Aquino said, we hope that thousands more like
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Video 48 PNOY CONFERS NATIONAL ARTIST AWARD TO FPJ/ AUGUST 16, 2012
Remembering FPJ Aquino Confers National Artist Award
Remembering FPJ Aquino Confers National Artist Award
