The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has initiated a search for Mindanao’s next GaMaBa awardees in Davao City. The initiative aims to recognize individuals who actively preserve and promote indigenous cultures.
The GaMaBa award, established in 2015, honors cultural bearers who contribute to the survival of traditional practices. This year’s search focuses on individuals from Mindanao, a region known for its diverse indigenous communities. The NCCA is seeking candidates who demonstrate leadership in cultural preservation through education, advocacy, or artistic expression.
Mindanao has long been a center of indigenous cultural richness, yet many traditions face threats from modernization and external influences. The GaMaBa award seeks to counteract this by providing recognition and support to those who work tirelessly to keep these traditions alive. Previous awardees have included elders, artists, and community leaders who have played key roles in cultural revitalization.
The search for new awardees reflects a broader effort to ensure that indigenous knowledge and practices remain relevant in contemporary society. By highlighting these individuals, the NCCA hopes to inspire future generations to take up the mantle of cultural stewardship.
