Video by: Marie Uy and Tamara Natividad
Superstar Nora Aunor, who used to sell water near train tracks
and never got past Grade two, said she felt like a college graduate after receiving the
Gawad Plaridel on Wednesday .
The famous actress, who was proclaimed artista ng bayan (artist
of the nation) by the University of the Philippines, focused on her beginnings
as a performer and the several films and shows she made during her career in
her lecture that lasted nearly an hour.
“Masayang masaya ako, (I am very glad.)” the Superstar said in
an interview after the ceremony. “Isang malaking karangalan maging artista ng
bayan. (It is a huge honor to be an artist of the nation.)”
The Gawad Plaridel is the sole award given annually by the
university to recognize outstanding media practitioners in the Philippines.
Among those present during the awarding ceremony were UP
officials Michael Tan and Alfredo Pascual, CMC Dean Rolando Tolentino and
former Gawad Plaridel awardee Jose Maria Lacaba.
The program, which was hosted by broadcasters Gretchen Fullido
and Ivan Mayrina, also featured performances from UP SAMASKOM and the UP
Concert Chorus.
Aunor, who is the 10th recipient of the award, was selected by
the UP College of Mass Communication because of her contribution in transmedia,
particularly in Philippine film and television.
