24 Oct 2018

Kidlat’s filmmaking pioneered an alternative path for later independent filmmakers. His mode of expression featured a distinct Filipino perspective that garnered local and international recognitions. His “indiogenius” cinema also predated the regional filmmaking that emerged in recent times.

Kidlat Tahimik is named National Artist together with Larry Alcala (visual arts), Amelia Lapeña Bonifacio (theater), Ryan Cayabyab (music), Francisco Mañosa (architecture), Resil Mojares (literature), and Ramon Muzones (literature).

The Order of National Artists is the highest recognition given by the Philippine government to Filipinos who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.