Last May 23, the seven artists were named National Artists under Proclamation nos. 1065 and 1071, for "their preeminent excellence in their own fields and for their national genius that contributes to the artistic heritage of the Philippines and the world."

At the Malacañang conferment ceremonies, President Arroyo will present the Order of National Artist medallion and citations to Lumbera, Obusan, Cabrera, Santos, Imao and to the families of the late Poe and Valera.

The program will include speeches by NCCA chair Ambeth Ocampo and CCP chair Emily Abrera.

At the CCP"s "Gabi ng Parangal," an exhibit will be opened at 6 p.m., and program proper at 7 p.m.

Program includes performance by the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Ballet Philippines and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

Guest performers include singer May Bayot to sing "Magbalik Ka Na, Mahal"; and three children’s choirs which will render "Awit ng Pagsinta," both from Bien Lumbera’s "Rama Hari," with models wearing Ramon Valera gowns.

There will also be audio-visual presentations on the life and works of the artists.

This year’s Parangal will be marked by upbeat and youthful presentations in a program sewn together by young actors selected from participants of Tanghalang Pilipino’s children’s theater and teen theater workshops.

The Order of National Artists, formerly known as the National Artists Awards, is one of the honors of the Philippines that embody the nation’s highest ideals in humanism and aesthetic expression through the distinct achievements of individual citizens.

The orders is jointly administered by the CCP and the NCCA and conferred by the President of the Philippines upon recommendation by both institutions.