The NCCA is one with the family of Napoleon Abueva and the whole nation in mourning the passing of the great sculptor and National Artist. Abueva died peacefully in the early morning of February 16, 2018, a great loss to the whole country. 

As the nation celebrates National Arts Month, we also celebrate the life and works of Abueva, whose legacy enriched us and will continue to enrich and inspire us as a people as well as the whole world. Abueva helped shape the art of sculpture in the country, ushering in a new mode and era in Philippine sculpture and visual arts in general. 

He is often referred as the Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture. His works have become Filipino cultural icons, exemplifying the creative genius of the Filipino. At the age of 46, he was conferred the title of National Artist, the youngest of all awardees. He continued to be exemplary in his craft and helped shape the Filipino soul.

We are all deeply touched by his genius, and Abueva remains immortal in the Filipinos’ heart and soul.