NCCA recognizes exceptional contributions to Filipino music

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is set to recognize exceptional contributions to Filipino music at the NCCA SUDI National Music Awards at the historic Metropolitan Theater in September.

Launched in 2020, the SUDI National Music Awards recognize outstanding musical achievements across genres and disciplines that have significantly shaped the Philippine music landscape. Sudi, an Ilokano adjective meaning celebrated, famous, or renowned, reflects the spirit of the award and its commitment to honoring musical excellence. While honorees are selected annually, the awards ceremony is held every three years—making this year’s event the first formal conferment of the SUDI National Music Awards since the program’s inception.

The awardees are overseen by the Board of Jury headed by the National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, and its prominent members; former NCCA Chairman Dr. Felipe De Leon, Ma. Cristina Arceo-Dumlao, Roberto Barreiro, Noel Cabangon, Lucenio Letaba, Dr. Grace Nono, Vadim Sisenand “Moy” Ortiz, Dr. Raul Sunico, Dr. Arwin Tan, and Melchor Villen.

11 awardees from 2021 to 2023 are set to receive their recognition, namely; Ben&Ben and Cebu Arts Foundation, Inc. (for the Cebu Popular Music Festival) 2021; Coke Bolipata, Gary Valenciano, Maria Alexandra Chua, Regine Velasquez, and SB19 for 2022; Dr. Marie Jocelyn Marfil, UST Singers, and Vincent De Jesus for 2023. Additionally, a Lifetime Achievement Award will be given to the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) Foundation, Inc.

The SUDI National Music Awards is also a highlight of Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (Filipino Music Week), celebrated annually during the last week of July. This celebration is in accordance with Proclamation No. 933, with NCCA designated as the lead agency to ensure the successful celebration in the Philippines. (Rene Napenas)