Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and former Manila mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso have expressed interest in supporting renewed efforts to nominate the late comedian Dolphy for the Order of National Artists, according to his son Vandolph Quizon, who said the proposal to confer the honor has been revived alongside the upcoming release of a tribute film.
Vandolph Quizon said in an interview that Belmonte and Domagoso have contacted the family regarding the possibility of reopening discussions on the nomination of Dolphy, whose full name is Rodolfo Vera Quizon Sr. He said the initiative had been under consideration even before Dolphy’s death in 2012 but did not progress.
The Order of National Artists represents the highest cultural recognition given to Filipino artists who have made significant contributions to Philippine arts and culture. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) manages the nomination process, which requires endorsement from recognized cultural organizations and final approval by the President of the Philippines.
The most recent nomination cycle closed on June 30, 2024. The next cycle is expected to open in late 2027, with possible proclamations in 2028, according to the NCCA schedule.
Several resolutions supporting Dolphy’s nomination have been filed in Congress and the Senate in previous years. Among these was a House resolution filed by Manila Rep. Joel Chua and similar petitions filed by Sen. Pia Cayetano and former Sen. Gringo Honasan.
Actor and singer Lea Salonga has also expressed support for Dolphy’s recognition as a National Artist in previous statements cited by supporters.
Dolphy died on July 10, 2012, at the age of 83 due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute renal failure.
Vandolph Quizon said Dolphy’s tribute film, “Home Along da Riles, Da Reunion,” reflects his father’s legacy in comedy and entertainment.
