On August 13, 2024, banners were displayed across the Ilocos Norte to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of the national living treasure and master weaver in Ilocano named Magdalena Gamayo.
Also known as Nana Dalen, she celebrate her birthday as the “oldest living Ilocano Master Weaver”
Her contributions were acknowledged by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in proclamation No. 664 on August 12, that period from August 13, 2024 to August 12, 2025, be observed as the Centennial Year of Magdalena Gamayo as Manlilikha ng Bayan.
The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan was given to Nana Dalen in 2012 and this was institutionalized through Republic Act No. 7355. This is the highest award that is given by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA) and is the same as the National Artist or National Scientist award to the finest traditional artist of the country.
Since 16 years old, she began to learn the Filipino abel weaving tradition and have worked her craft for over 80 years.
According to NCAA her first loom that was bought to her by her father at the age of 19, lasted her through the marriage and motherhood.
Nana Dalen’s birth celebration was marked by a “series of events and programe through her centennial year, NCAA added in a statement.
In honor of Nana Delen’s centennial year a special commemorative postage stamp was held.
Photo Courtesy: Magdalena Gamayo’s Facebook Page