University News

Tiongson, University Special Lecturer, Named National Artist for Literature

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

SDG 4 SDG 11

The University congratulates Dr. Nicanor G. Tiongson, fondly known as Doc Nic, on his recent proclamation as a National Artist for Literature.

Through Proclamation No. 1414, released on September 1, the Philippine government officially recognized Tiongson’s invaluable contributions to Philippine literature, arts and culture, cementing his legacy as a pillar of the nation’s literary heritage and preservation.

The new National Artist shares a deep, collaborative history with the Sintang Paaralan. From 2021 to 2023, he served as a special lecturer, facilitating the Masterclass on the Philippine Arts at PUP: DESK and TP Seminar-Workshop. During this period, he taught the course “Sining at ang Kamalayang Pilipino” to PUP faculty and staff across all campuses, significantly deepening the university community’s appreciation for the Filipino heritage and critical cultural discourse.

Beyond his lectures, he edited “Sining at Kamalayang Pilipino na Maka-Tao,” an anthology of essays authored by PUP faculty exploring various aspects of Filipino arts and media. Published by the PUP Research Institute for Culture and Language - Center for Philippine Studies (RICL-CPS), the book was critically acclaimed and emerged as a finalist for the 41st National Book Awards in 2024.

In addition, Tiongson is a professor emeritus of the University of the Philippines (UP) Film Institute and a former dean of the UP College of Media and Communication. He is also an artistic director and vice president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), as well as a founding member and former chair of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino.

He authored “The Cinema of Manuel Conde,” “The Urian Anthology,” and “The Women of Malolos,” and edited the 10-volume CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. He has also penned several plays, including "Pilipinas Circa 1907," "Basiila ng Malolos," "Noli at Fili Dekada 2000," and "Mabining Mandirigma."

This prestigious achievement reflects PUP's tireless dedication to elevating Filipino culture and the arts. By actively fostering meaningful partnerships with noted cultural and literary scholars like Dr. Tiongson, the University enriches the literary experience of the PUP Community, paving the way for a more culturally resilient Philippines. 

Furthermore, this recognition supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4—Quality Education through the implementation of literacy and cultural education programs. At the same time, the University advances SDG 11—Sustainable Cities and Communities by leveraging cultural initiatives to promote the inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability of human settlements.