Dolphy to receive award from Palace

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino will confer the Grand Collar (Maringal na Kuwintas) of the Order of the Golden Heart on comedian Rodolfo Quizon, popularly known as Dolphy, in recognition of his achievements in show business and philanthropy.  

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said that while Quizon would not be given the National Artist Award as some sectors were suggesting, he would be accorded the highest rank for private citizens. 

“The last one to receive this was Helen Keller on May 20, 1955. So it’s very interesting that the predecessor of Manong Dolphy on this award was Keller,” Valte said over radio station dzRB. 

The National Artist Award is conferred on a Filipino recognized for his significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.

Quizon actively campaigned for Sen. Manuel Villar Jr., Mr. Aquino’s closest rival in the May 2010 elections. 

The award will be conferred on Quizon on Monday in simple rites at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of Malacañang tomorrow at 2 p.m.

One of Quizon’s philanthropic projects is the Dolphy Aid Para sa Pinoy Foundation that gives scholarships to deserving children of overseas Filipino workers.

The Order of the Golden Heart was established in 1954 by the late President Ramon Magsaysay to recognize those who had rendered distinguished services or material aid to improve the condition of the masses.