102-year-old Kalinga Tattoo master Whang-Od Oggay conferred the Dangal ng Haraya award by the NCCA (National Commission For Culture And The Arts) for intangible cultural heritage.
Dangal ng Haraya (Achievement Award) is given to living Filipino artists, cultural workers, and historians, artistic or cultural groups, historical societies, institutions, foundations, and councils, for outstanding achievements in relevant fields that have made an impact and significant contribution to Philippine culture and arts.
Through these awards, the NCCA seeks to uphold excellence in all artistic and cultural endeavors, encourage initiative and participation among groups and individuals, and recognize exemplary cultural programs that can serve as valuable examples to others.
It is the first time that the award has been given to a traditional or folk artist.
Whang-Od was conferred the award by NCCA chairperson and National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario.
Eva Oggay, the honoree’s grandniece, told the Inquirer that Whang-Od had turned 102 years old last February.