On Wednesday, March 18, 2009, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo formally awards the Medal of Merits to the late Francis Magalona for upholding nationalism through his music.
Magalona died of Leukemia on March 6, 2009. He was 44 years old.
Francis' wife, Pia Magalona, together with her eight children and close friends were there to receive and witness the award.
It just came to my mind why awards of appreciation for a man's craft had to be given when he dies. Can't we learn to appreciate their work when they are still alive and able to reap the success of their labor?
Take the case of the late Fernando Poe, Jr. who was bestowed the National Artist Award in 2006. Poe died in December 2004, months after he was defeated by GMA from the Presidential elections in May 2004.
The award, however, was not accepted by Poe's wife, Susan Roces, due to the existing conflict between Poe's camp and GMA. The opposition has accused GMA of cheating in the previous election.
If only people who make significant roles in the society were given awards at their prime, I believe they will be even encouraged to improve their craft and still find ways to contribute more for the country.
