President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led a solemn ceremony at Malacañan Palace on Sunday to confer the Presidential Medal of Merit posthumously on four Filipino icons—Gloria Romero, Margarita Forés, Pilita Corrales, and Nora Aunor—lauding their extraordinary contributions to Filipino culture and identity.
“These women live on in every artist who dares to dream, in every Filipino who proudly shows the world what it means to be one of us,” Marcos said during his speech, recognizing the legacy each of them leaves behind in film, music, and the culinary arts.
Marcos described the honorees as “pillars of national consciousness” whose works have not only shaped Philippine culture but also made it resonate on the global stage.
The Presidential Medal of Merit, established in 2003 under Executive Order No. 236, is awarded to individuals who demonstrate outstanding service and excellence in nation-building.
Gloria Romero, known as the “Queen of Philippine Cinema,” earned numerous accolades including seven FAMAS Awards and starred in classics like Dalagang Ilocana and Tanging Yaman. She passed away in January 2025.
Chef Margarita Forés was celebrated for blending Filipino flavors with Italian cuisine, earning her the title of Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016. She died in February 2025.
Pilita Corrales, dubbed “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” touched hearts worldwide with her voice. She received global recognition, including the Best Performer award at the Tokyo Music Festival, and passed away in April 2025.
Nora Aunor, a National Artist and multi-awarded actress, was honored for her unforgettable roles in films like Himala and Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos. She also passed away in April 2025.
