Sagada town wants Masferre declared as National Artist

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Sangguniang Bayan of Sagada in Mountain Province wants Eduardo Masferre, father of Philippine Photography, to be included in the country’s roster of National Artists.

In a resolution, the councilors recognized and commended Masferre for his contributions in the fields of photography and documentation of indigenous cultural communities (ICC) as well as the indigenous peoples (IPs) particularly of Sagada.

Masferre’s photographs showed the world the IP life and culture. His works gained international acclaim and he became an icon of photography. His works from 1934 to 1956 were printed, published and exhibited both in local and international scenes. 

Masferre, son of a Spanish soldier, was born in Sagada on April 18, 1909. He died on June 24, 1995.

The Sagada municipal council said in its resolution that Masferre, through his evocative lens and meticulous documentation, amplified the voice of the ICCs and the IPs, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation of their unique way of life.

The council also asked Sagada Mayor Felicito Dula to nominate Masferre as a national artist before the National Commission on Culture and the Arts.