Dolphy’s nomination as national artist pushed

MANILA, Philippines, July 10 ------ A lawmaker has formally asked the House of Representatives to nominate comedy king Rodolfo “Dolphy” Quizon Sr. for the Order of National Artists when the secretariat opens its next call for nominations. In a statement — a day before Dolphy’s 13th death anniversary — Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua announced that he has filed House Resolution (HR) No. 41 last July 9, asking that the House task the committee on creative industries and committee on basic education to conduct hearings and meetings on the matter.

“Dolphy was conferred the Grand Collar of the Order of the Golden Heart (OGH) in accordance with the Honors Code of the Philippines by then President Benigno S. Aquino, Jr., because ‘his comedy has brought joy to millions but just as importantly, his well-known philanthropy and encouragement of charitable and good causes as well’,” Chua said in the resolution.

“Now therefore, be it resolved as it is hereby resolved, that the House of Representatives nominate Rodolfo Vera Quizon, Sr. for the Order of National Artist when the ONA Secretariat, through the NCCA, issues its next Call for Nominations; That the Committee on Creative Industries and Committee on Basic Education and Culture be tasked to conduct the necessary meetings, hearings, research, and other activities for the documentation, completion and submission of the Order of National Artist Nomination Form and its accompanying requirements,” he added.

Chua also asked that the Quizon family be invited to provide inputs regarding this possible nomination. “That the Quizon Family, Lea Salonga, and officials of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Order of National Artist Secretariat, Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS), and the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND) be among those invited to provide inputs to the Committees in their work to nominate Rodolfo Vera Quizon, Sr for the Order of National Artist,” he noted.

A multi-awarded actor more known for his comedy films, Dolphy passed away on June 11, 2012. Dolphy’s career in entertainment as a comedian — on stage, radio, television, and movies — lasted more than six decades. After the actor’s death, Aquino declared a National Day of Remembrance to honor Dolphy’s contributions to the Philippine entertainment scene. While he was recognized as comedy king, Dolphy also received critical acclaim for his acting — having played as a cross-dressing homosexual to a poor jack of all trades. Aside from Chua, several artists have also called for the naming of Dolphy as a national artist.

Source: inquirer.net