Noranians will never forgive President Benigno Aquino 3rd for denying their beloved idol the honor of being named a National Artist. That’s understandable. Nora Aunor has left a deep imprint on Philippine cinema, having achieved both critical acclaim and mass popularity.

Resentment towards the presidential veto has now spread beyond Ms. Aunor’s fans. It has touched off a spirited debate on whether the final say in proclaiming National Artists should be left to the President.