National Living Treasure Awardee on Chanting (Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan) is an NDMU Alumna

Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) takes immense pride in one of its own, Rosie Godwino Sula “Boi Lmingon”, hailed as a National Living Treasure Awardee (Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan - GAMABA) for her mastery as a pic chanter and Tboli dancer. An NDMU alumna with a Bachelor's in Education, Class of 1987, Bo’i Rosie was born into a respected clan of Datu and Bo’i in Lake Sebu. She grew up deeply connected to T’boli oral traditions, especially the Tudbulul, the highest form of their musical expression. Her exceptional knowledge of this sacred art has taken her across the country and abroad, making her a key resource for studies on the epic, which reflects the rich life and culture of the T’boli people.

She was awarded through Presidential Proclamation No. 247, S. 2023, the highest distinction equivalent to a National Artist, with a lifetime monthly stipend of ₱75,000 and an annual medical allowance of ₱750,000—a recognition of her invaluable role in safeguarding and sharing indigenous culture. Recognized for her commitment to preserving and promoting the T’boli lingon (chanting) tradition, she stands as the youngest GAMABA awardee. Her life and work embody the qualities of a true cultural master. She has created a significant body of work, consistently displayed excellence in practice, and contributed to the development of her community’s artistic traditions.

Carrying with her the spirit of Tboli tradition, she has performed on global stages from Asia to New York and Milan, Italy, showcasing the richness of indigenous heritage. Her powerful performance at the ASEAN Expo 2025 in Koronadal City embodied the theme “Weaving Cultures, Sustaining Traditions.” With each chant and graceful movement, she reminded the audience that culture is not just preserved in memory, but lived and shared across generations. As an NDMU alumna,

Rosie Godwino Sula brings honor not only to her Tboli community and South Cotabato but also to the University that helped shape her journey.

Bo’i Rosie Godwino Sula performing a T’boli epic chant during the ASEAN Expo 2025 in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

Photo Credits: OMNIANA (Official School Publication of NDMU)