The Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (Commission on the Filipino Language) has decided to honor two of the country’s most iconic stars for their contributions in promoting Philippine culture and the Filipino language.
The KWF announced that it would confer its Kampeon ng Wika award to superstar Nora Aunor, while the commission’s Dangal ng Panitikan will be given to singer-songwriter Freddie Aguilar.
The KWF’s Kampeon ng Wika award is annually given to individuals or groups who actively promote or preserve Filipino and other Philippine languages in different fields or disciplines. Previous recipients include Aunor’s contemporary, congresswoman and “Star for All Seasons” Vilma Santos-Recto, as well as entertainment talk show host Cristy Fermin.
Meanwhile, the Dangal ng Panitikan award recognizes individuals whose work has led to the development of Philippine literature and culture.
Hailed as the “Grand Dame of Philippine Cinema,” Nora Aunor is an award-winning film actress, singer, and film producer whose career spans over five decades. Aunor’s iconic roles over the years include the 1982 film “Himala” by Ishmael Bernal, widely considered as one of the greatest Filipino films of all time, and “Thy Womb” in 2012, which led her to reap international awards and nominations.
Freddie Aguilar is a folk singer-songwriter best known for his song “Anak”, the best-selling Philippine music record of all time. “Anak” has been translated in 27 languages since its 1978 release, and was notably featured in the 2015 South Korean action film, “Gangnam Blues” starring Lee Min Ho.
The WKF is the Philippines’ official regulating body of the Filipino language, and is tasked with developing, preserving, and promoting the different Philippine languages.
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