Uwang Ahadas, musician
At age 20, he broke tradition by reaching excellence in playing the kwintangan, an instrument
typically played by a woman. The instrument, made up of logs arranged beneath a tree near a
rice field, is used to call for abundant grains and rice growth. He is also dedicated to sharing his
knowledge to younger folk; his teaching style is hands-on and supportive, giving his students his
full attention. He was awarded in 2000.
Magdalena Gamayo, textile weaver
Gamayo’s skill and instinct are none more apparent than they are in her ability to
replicate designs she’s only seen once. Her binakol, or woven cloth, continues to draw
praise and awe for its above-average thread count and uniform weave. To keep Ilocos’
abel weaving tradition alive, she teaches her practice to her cousin’s daughter-in-law
and sister-in-law. She was awarded in 2012.
Eduardo Mutuc, metalsmith and artist
Having finished up to elementary school, Eduardo Mutuc, a farmer at the time, became
an apprentice to furniture carvers to earn additional income. He had no prior knowledge
of the work he was getting into, but this didn’t stop him from expanding his experience
and becoming one of the most respected creators of religious and secular art today. He
uses wood, silver, and bronze to create exquisitely detailed and lifelike pieces of varying
sizes: altars, mirrors, retablos, and even carosas. Mutuc is based in Apalit, Pampanga.
He was awarded in 2004.
Alonzo Saclag, traditional dancer and musician
Saclag understands the importance of his practice and is a strong advocate of passing
on his knowledge and continuing the use of traditional dress and adornments. His
efforts have included formal education, reaching radio stations, and the formation of the
Kalinga Budong Dance Troupe. He was awarded in 2000.
Masino Intaray, chanter and musician
A member of the Pala’wan tribe, musician and epic chanter Masino Intaray was a
master of the basal, a gong music ensemble played during rice cooking (tambilaw) and
sharing (tinapay) rituals, which gather the community as they serve offerings to
Pala’wan rice god Ampo’t Paray.
Intaray also performed the kulilal, a lyrical poem expressing love, accompanied by two-
stringed lute and bamboo zither, and the bagit, an instrumental piece about nature. His
memory and determination guided him in chanting through many successive nights,
reciting epics, stories, myths of origin, and the teachings of ancestors. Intaray, who was
awarded in 1993, passed away in 2013.
