These Outstanding Icons to Receive Presidential Medals of Merit

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to confer the Presidential Medals of Merit to four outstanding Filipino figures for their lasting impact and legacy to the Philippines’ entertainment and F&B (food and beverage) industry.

Photo: Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor (from Janine Gutierrez’s Instagram page)

According to a report by GMA Integrated News, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro confirmed that National Artist Nora Aunor, veteran actress Gloria Romero, renowned singer Pilita Corrales, and Chef Margarita Fores would receive a posthumous award. The awarding ceremony is set to take place in Malacañang on May 4, 2025.

The “Presidential Medal of Merit” is conferred upon an individual, whether they may be a Filipino or a foreign national, for their outstanding contribution in various fields such as literature, sciences, arts, entertainment, and others.

Nora Aunor, regarded as one of the greatest and most influential Filipino actresses of all time, was named the National Artist of the Philippines for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022. She passed away on April 16 at the age of 71.

Following her exemplary contribution to the Philippine film industry, Malacañang declared Tuesday, April 22, 2025, as a “Day of National Mourning” for the superstar.

In the same month, Filipinos mourned the passing of Pilita Corrales. Hailed as the “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” the 85-year-old icon left an indelible mark on the Philippine entertainment industry with her timeless voice and exceptional talent that spanned six decades.

The death of Queen of Philippine Cinema Gloria Romero sent shockwaves of sadness across the entertainment industry, as she passed away at the age of 91 on January 25. With a career lasting seven decades, she was best known for her acting performances in “Tanging Yaman” (2000), “Bahay ni Lola” (2001), “Magnifico” (2003), “Dalagang Ilocana” (1954), and “Rainbow’s Sunset” (2018).

Finally, Chef Margarita Forés remains one of the most celebrated Filipino culinary icons as she became the driving force behind well-known restaurants such as Cibo, Lusso, and Grace Park. She passed away in February.