June 24 declared special holiday in Manila

President Arroyo declared June 24, Monday, a special non-working holiday in the City of Manila which observes its 431st founding anniversary.

Arroyo said she issued Proclamation 206 to give the residents of Manila, conscious of the historical and cultural significance of the event, the opportunity to celebrate "Araw ng Maynila" with appropriate ceremonies.

Araw ng Maynila also coincides with the celebration of the Feast Day of San Juan de Bautista in San Juan which is traditionally celebrated with dousing of water symbolizing the baptisms associated with St. John the Baptist.

Meanwhile, Manila honored last Thursday outstanding Filipino artists in various fields of Philippine art and culture during a ceremony at the Bulwagang Antonio Villegas at city hall.

The "Diwa ng Lahi at Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan Awards" is an annual event where three major awards are given. Leading this year’s awardees is Professor Andrea Veneracion for the Diwa ng Lahi Award and Virgilio Almario for the Gat Antonio Villegas Award.

Awardees for Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan are Raul Locsin, architecture; Sharon Cuneta, cinema; Edna Vida, dance; Pablo Gomez, literature; Alfonso "Coke" Bolipata, music; Antonio Austria, Painting; Agnes Arellano, sculpture; Joy Virata, theater; and Santiago Bose, Makabagong Pamamaraan (new art form).

A special award was also given to noted cartoonist Severino "Nonoy" Marcelo for his cartoons depicting life in Manila and the country.

In an inspirational message, Mayor Lito Atienza, during the awarding ceremonies at the Bulwagang Villegas at the Manila City Hall, hailed the awardees for their achievements in their respective fields that served to enrich Philippine art and culture and earned the country recognition worldwide. – Marichu Villanueva