Jose Mari Chan, nominated as National Artist by FFCCCII

FINALLY, Jose Mari Chan is being nominated to be one of the country’s national artists. 

The beloved Filipino-Chinese singer, best known for songs like “Christmas in Our Hearts” and “Mamang Sorbeto,” has long been dubbed by many to be the “King of Philippine Christmas Carols.” 

Reportedly, the chairman and spokesperson of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FFCCCI), Wilson Lee Flores, they’d already made an appeal to Former resident Rodrigo Duterte in the past, and are once again appealing to President Ferdiand Marcos Jr. to finally make the singer a national artist. 

Flores explained that many have long wanted Chan to be a National Artist given that his songs aren’t just for the elite; everyone has been inspired by his songs.

In a poll created by Philstar asking who they wanted as the next National Artist, many answered Jose Mari Chan given his talent both in singing and in composing music..

Achievements

The FFCCCII has been pushing for Chan to be nominated for years now; back in 2022, the artist received the FFCCCII Lifetime Achievement Award during their “Pandesal Forum,” accompanied by a plaque of honor and a special medallion to commemorate this award.

Before this, Chan has received plenty of acclaim for his music. He has won numerous Awit Awards in different categories, such as for Best Christmas Recording, Album of the Year, and Best Jazz Recording.

Aside from this, the 79-year-old has sold millions of copies of his albums, and is one of the best-selling Filipino recording artists of all time. His career in music started following the release of his debut album, “Deep in My Heart,” back in 1969, and he has continued to produce hit after hit since then. 

Is is not yet confirmed whether or not Chan will be hailed the next National Artist, but many Filipinos are excitedly waiting for the artist to finally get the recognition he has long deserved.