By Keziah G. Huelar

Clem Marnel R. Burgos aims to inspire Centralians by encouraging them to pursue their passion for the arts.

Clem Marnel R. Burgos, a graduating Mass Communication student of Central Philippine University and a two-time CPU Republic senator, was the lone recipient of the Ani ng Dangal Award in the field of Dramatic Arts from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. The awarding was held at the Diamond Hotel in Manila on February 27, 2019.

It can be recalled that Burgos bested 44 other contestants from 12 countries around the globe to become the overall champion during the 5th International Competition of Arts and Culture held in Yerevan, Armenia on July 7-12, 2018. He was the only Filipino representative in the said competition.

In his video profile during the awarding, Burgos highlighted how God used his talent to inspire others and encourage them to pursue God’s purpose in their lives by developing their talent for the arts: “[I] don’t want to highlight the international win or being a national awardee, but [I would like to focus] on how God used a pastor’s kid, through His amazing love and wonder, better plans, overflowing blessings, and perfect timing, as long as one remains faithful to Him. I personally hope that this could be my platform to share more of God’s Word.”

Burgos, through a social media post, also challenged young people to be dreamers: “I dare you to dream. Dream big, bigger than you could ever imagine. Just offer your life to God and things like this, something you’ll never think that’s going to happen, can happen.”

He also thanked CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, the CPUAAI, CPUAAI- GMA Chapter, CCINAA, his family, friends the entire Centralian community for the support.

The Dangal ng Ani Awards recognizes Filipino artists who have earned honor and prestige for the country in international competitions all over the globe. Established in 1991, the said recognition has been supporting local artists and projects to showcase the best of the country in culture and the arts. It has seven art disciplines, namely: architecture and allied arts, cinema, dance, dramatic arts, literary arts, music, and visual arts including multi-disciplinary arts.

Its notable awardees include Brillante Mendoza, Pepe Diokno, Lea Salonga, Kara David, Nora Aunor and many others. Ilonggo awardees include Jhett Tolentino, Eric Delos Santos and Jed Madela.

Burgos is the first Centralian and Ilonggo student to receive such award.