Tattoo artist Whang-Od conferred Presidential Medal of Merit

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. awards Maria ‘Whang-od’ Oggay with the Presidential Medal of Merit on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. (Photo from RTV Malacañang)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday awarded famed indigenous tattoo artist Maria ‘Whang-od’ Oggay with the Presidential Medal of Merit, calling her an “enabler of unity.”  

During an awarding ceremony in Malacañan Palace, the President recognized the 106-year-old Kalinga native, together with the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) Outstanding Government Workers of 2023. 

“Her craft and stature as an internationally recognized artist raised international awareness of our country’s rich cultural heritage, as Apo Whang-Od’s work appealed to diverse cultures and across the political divide, she becomes a enabler for unity and example of an idea that binds as all, she is truly a national treasure,” said Marcos in his speech. 

Marcos lauded Whang-od for her contributions to upholding indigenous culture through her tattoo work, saying that she elevated the country into the international light. 

“Her contributions to the preservation of Philippine traditional arts and practices cannot be overstated.  We are honoring Apo Whang-Od for works that have made her and the country famous,” said Marcos. 

The President also said she shattered stereotypes during her time, as it was a craft reserved for men. 

“She is a keeper of the oral traditions and a mentor in teaching a new generation of artists, thus ensuring her art form lives on to tell tales of her community’s history,” said Marcos. 

In the same ceremony, Marcos also awarded several government workers for their work in 2023. 

According to the Palace, the CSC’s Honor Awards Program recognizes excellent public servants in three categories: the Presidential Lingkod Bayan, the CSC Pagasa Award and the Dangal ng Bayan Award.