Fides Cuyugan-Asensio: A Trailblazer Recognized as the National Artist for Music
Fides Cuyugan-Asensio, a luminary in the realm of Filipino music and opera, achieved a significant milestone on June 11, 2022, when she was declared the National Artist for Music by President Rodrigo Duterte.
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This prestigious title, conferred through Presidential Proclamation no. 1390, recognizes Fides Cuyugan-Asensio’s extraordinary contributions to the field of music and her multifaceted roles as an opera singer, teacher, stage and film actor, and librettist.
Exceptional Achievements
Fides Cuyugan-Asensio’s journey to becoming the National Artist for Music is marked by a series of exceptional achievements.
As the first Filipino accepted into the esteemed Curtis Institute of Music, she laid the foundation for a career that would redefine the landscape of Filipino music and opera.
Remarkable Performances
Fides Cuyugan-Asensio’s remarkable performances, particularly her portrayal of Sisa in Felipe de Leon’s Noli Me Tangere, have become iconic moments in the history of Filipino musical theater.
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Versatility in the Arts
Beyond her accomplishments as an opera singer, Fides Cuyugan-Asensio has demonstrated versatility in various artistic domains. As a stage and film actor, she has brought her talent to diverse platforms, enriching the cultural tapestry of the Philippines.
Contributions as a Librettist
One of Fides Cuyugan-Asensio’s distinct contributions to the world of music is her role as a librettist.
Collaborating with renowned composers such as Lucrecia Kasilag, Ryan Cayabyab, and Francisco Feliciano, she has played a pivotal role in crafting the narrative and lyrical elements of modern Philippine operas.
Promotion and Preservation of Opera
Fides Cuyugan-Asensio has actively directed productions of both Filipino and Western operas, contributing to the promotion and preservation of this classical art form in the Philippines.
Her efforts have been instrumental in fostering an appreciation for opera among audiences and aspiring artists.


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