Ryan Cayabyab on Nat’l Artist, Magsaysay awards: “a little uncomfortable”

Romar Fernando

September 11, 2019

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  Photo Credit: BusinessWorld

  Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, both a living National Artist and a Magsaysay awardee, expressed his thoughts about his awards.

  “Whenever people announce at events that they’re in the presence of a National Artist … I’m not used to it. I get shy because I don’t see myself as being higher than any of the people I work with in my milieu,” said Cayabyab in an interview by the Inquirer.

  Despite his presence and expertise as renowned musician, he still prefers to be called as “Mr. C” rather than any term of eminence.

  Cayabyab touted the Ramon Magsaysay that of premiere honor and greatness. “Like the National Artist Award, this was unexpected. I’m nervous, to be quite frank. People have been telling me that it really is a big deal, because it’s Asia-wide.”

  “I’m more than honored that I get to enjoy these things while I’m still here,” he concluded.

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