Actor and singer Anthony Ramos, musician, composer, and arranger Ángel 'Cucco' Peña, and actress Justina Machado received the prestigious National Ceiba Award during the Gala Raíces 2026 at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture (NMPRAC) in Chicago. The award recognizes individuals with outstanding commitment to preserving, promoting, and projecting Puerto Rican arts and culture.
Ramos, Peña, and Machado join a list of notable personalities who have received this recognition, including Ricky Martin, Liza Colón-Zayas, Rita Moreno, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Anthony Ramos has had a notable career in theater, film, television, and music, including originating roles in the Broadway phenomenon 'Hamilton' and participating in productions like 'In the Heights' and 'A Star Is Born'.
He has also been committed to giving back to his community, participating in initiatives like 'Almost Like Praying' to support hurricane María victims in Puerto Rico and establishing a scholarship for low-income youth in New York. Ángel 'Cucco' Peña was recognized for his extensive career in music, becoming one of the most respected figures in Hispanic popular music.