Netizens on Nora Aunor: National Artist or National Saint?

MANILA, Philippines – Before, it was Nora vs Vilma. Now, it’s Nora vs PNoy. 

Supporters and fans of veteran actress Nora Aunor were understandably rattled to learn that the actress was not named National Artist for Film this year. Aunor had been shortlisted by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, which jointly administer the award, only to have the honor wrenched away by President Benigno Aquino III’s veto. 

Controversies have become part and parcel of the National Artist awards over the years, but things took an explosive turn when the President confirmed on Tuesday, July 1, the coffee shop talk in arts circles: it was because of Aunor’s drug use from years ago.

Aunor has gone through rehab and is currently drug-free, but the President fears that honoring her would still send the wrong message.

The move opened up a lot of questions regarding the weight of an artist’s personal life on his or her achievements, and how much intervention the government should have in a country’s arts and culture scene.

Netizens, naturally, had a lot to say, and here’s what some of them think:

What’s your take on this issue? Did the President go too far, or was it just not Nora Aunor’s time? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below! –Rappler.com