Nora Aunor, Pilita Corrales, Margarita Fores, Gloria Romero get presidential medals

National treasures all. Nora Aunor, Pilita Corrales, Margarita Fores, and Gloria Romero

MANILA, Philippines — The Palace on Wednesday confirmed that the late Nora Aunor, Pilita Corrales, Margarita Fores, and Gloria Romero will be given Presidential Medals of Merit for their contribution to the entertainment industry and gastronomy.

This was according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.

The ceremony will be held at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang Palace on May 4.

READ: Superstar and National Artist Nora Aunor laid to rest at Libingan ng mga Bayani

Castro confirmed a report that National Artist for Film Aunor, renowned singer and Asia’s Queen of Songs Corrales, cinema icon Romero, and internationally acclaimed chef and restaurateur Fores will receive the presidential award in a ceremony on May 4 in Malacañang.

The Presidential Medal of Merit is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service or achievement in their fields that bring honor to the country.

Aunor died on April 16. Her groundbreaking work in Philippine cinema spanned more than five decades, marked by critically acclaimed performances in films such as “Himala” and “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited Aunor’s wake on Monday to personally convey his condolences to the family of the National Artist.

Corrales, who passed away on April 12, was best known for her trailblazing career as a singer and entertainer across Asia, paving the way for Filipino artists on the international stage.

Romero, who died on Jan. 25, was regarded as a matriarch of Philippine cinema, having starred in classic films since the 1950s and earning acclaim for her grace and longevity in the industry.

Fores, who died on Feb. 11, was a celebrated culinary innovator and entrepreneur, credited with promoting Filipino cuisine globally and named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016.