President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Merit to four distinguished Filipinas who passed away this year.
The highest civilian honor was conferred to the families of legendary actress Nora Aunor, screen icon Gloria Romero, veteran singer Pilita Corrales, and world-renowned chef Margarita Fores.
Under Executive Order 236, the Presidential Medal of Merit is granted to Filipinos who have brought great honor to the nation through their work and achievements.
President Marcos personally expressed his gratitude to the relatives of the awardees for the lasting legacy left behind by these national icons.
He emphasized that the contributions of the late recipients are immeasurable and unmatched, noting that their influence will endure across generations.
The awarding ceremony served as a tribute to their excellence in the fields of film, music, and culinary arts, and their role in shaping Philippine cultural heritage.