Is Regine Velasquez's Legacy Worthy of National Artist Distinction?
Regine Velasquez was recently honored with the Powerhouse Award at Billboard Philippines's 1st Women in Music Awards, recognizing her almost four decades of contributions to Original Pilipino Music (OPM). This has sparked online discussions, with many social media users, music fans, and Velasquez's legions of supporters suggesting that it's high time for Asia's Songbird to be declared a National Artist for Music.
Velasquez is considered a legend in the Philippine music scene. She boasts a stellar career, characterized by record-breaking album sales not only domestically but internationally. Her powerful voice and impressive vocal range have captivated audiences for decades.
But what does it take to become a National Artist? What prerequisites must be met to qualify? How does the selection process work, and who determines whether one can achieve National Artist status?
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My first encounter with Regina Encarnacion Ansong Velasquez, popularly known as Regine Velasquez, was in 1996 during a singing performance for the musical special "Asia Live" on GMA 7. I stood behind the cameraman, awestruck by her angelic rendition of “You've Made Me Stronger.” To this day, it remains one of her top performances that still lingers in my mind, even after more than three decades.
At that time, while Regine was with her father, the production staff offered her snacks and beverages, but she only requested room-temperature water in a glass. She was quiet and kept to herself. I didn't even see her rehearse. But when the staff informed her it was time to perform, I heard musical notes, melodies, and runs I never knew existed. I knew right there and then that I was in the presence of music royalty.
During the 1990s, when it was hard to penetrate and even get noticed in the international music scene, Velasquez was already sought after by other countries to perform. She has graced the stages of nearly all significant indoor and outdoor musical venues several times over.
In 1991, Velasquez made her US concert debut at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City, marking a first for an Asian solo artist.
It's also noteworthy that British theatrical producer Cameron Mackintosh invited Velasquez to audition for the West End production of the musical Miss Saigon. However, she declined the offer.
"I never auditioned here in the Philippines. I went straight to New York. I was with Jamie Rivera and Dulce. Then, we received a letter that they wanted to train me in London. It’s just that I’ve never done theater before, so there really was no contest. That was a break, but I said no. I can't leave my family. I'm more familiar with concerts, not theater," she told Boy Abunda in a 2002 interview for The Philippine Star.
The Bulakeña singer belongs to an elite group of Philippine artists, having received a 12-time platinum certification from the Philippine Association of the Recording Industry (PARI). She was hailed the Bestselling OPM Artist of All Time, according to an article by GMA News Network.
Besides her singing career, she's also made significant strides in Philippine cinema with a string of commercially successful films. She has served as a presenter for reality TV competitions and judged prestigious singing competitions.
Velasquez has her fair share of music awards that acknowledge her great singing talent. She has won Asian Television Awards twice, MTV Asia Awards twice, 22 Awit Awards, 16 Aliw Awards, 22 Box Office entertainment awards, and 14 Star Awards for Music.
She was one of the pioneering Filipino singers, if not the first, to duet and share the global stage with an international music artist. She has performed and collaborated with Alicia Keys, Brian McKnight, 98 Degrees, Mandy Moore, Ronan Keating, Peabo Bryson, Coco Lee, David Pomeranz, Jackie Cheung, Eduardo Capetillo, David Archuleta, Fernando Carillo, Paul Anka, Stephen Bishop, Jim Brickman, and even David Hasselhoff.
Is it fair to say that her achievements and contributions make her deserving of such an honor? If being a National Artist equates to bringing acclaim to the country through one's talent, then Velasquez should indeed be considered. Her voice, talent, and unwavering dedication to her craft have inspired generations, making her a fitting choice to join the ranks of other National Artists like Fernando Amorsolo, Vicente Manansala, Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Fernando Poe Jr., and Levi Celerio.
According to The National Gazette, the National Artist distinction recognizes Filipino citizens for their invaluable contributions to the enrichment of Philippine arts and culture. To be considered for this honor, nominees must be living artists and Filipino citizens at the time of nomination, or have been citizens at the time of their death post-1972, when the award was established.
The selection focuses on artists whose work promotes a strong sense of Filipino identity and those who have introduced new or pioneering creative styles that influence later generations. Candidates should also have a substantial and impactful collection of work showing ongoing excellence, broadening the range of artistic expression.
Who determines eligibility for the National Artist honor, or inclusion in the Order of National Artists (Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining)? This decision falls to the esteemed members of the National Commission for Culture and Arts and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Given Velasquez's achievements, artistic influence, and enduring impact on Filipino music, she is undoubtedly a strong contender for the prestigious title.
Her voice has become a powerful symbol of Filipino talent, and her dedication to her craft serves as an inspiration for generations of singers. The recognition as a National Artist would be a fitting tribute to her remarkable career and solidify her place as a true icon in Philippine music history.
Gerald Grana is a former music executive, entertanment editor, and currently works as a marketing consultant and entrepreneur. He's passionate about music, sports and food.
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