MANILA – Renowned fashion designer Pitoy Moreno has passed away, and his family has no plans of seeking the posthumous conferment of the title of National Artist.

It was back in 2009 when Moreno and three others – film director Carlo Caparas, former National Commission on Culture and Arts executive director Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, and architect Francisco Mañosa – were named National Artists by then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, a controversial decision that was later invalidated by the Supreme Court.

The high court has made it clear that Moreno, Caparas, Guidote-Alvarez, and Mañosa are not barred from getting the award, which means they may still be proclaimed National Artists by other Presidents.

But Moreno’s eldest sister, Virgie, does not see the need for the fashion designer to be recognized by Malacañang.

“[They’re saying] ‘You (Moreno) should not go to the Palace.’ As if that is the height of grandeur and glory. No,” she told ABS-CBN News’ Mario Dumaual.

“Pitoy is a Filipino, Pitoy is a patriot, Pitoy is a nationalist,” she added.

The late Jose Pitoy Moreno’s feisty sister, poet Virgie Moreno will not appeal posthumous conferment of controversial national artist award for brother. Here’s why @ABSCBNNews pic.twitter.com/ALRv5qAvTR

— Mario Dumaual (@mariovdumaual) January 17, 2018

Moreno died at the age of 87 early this week.

With a career spanning over 60 years, Moreno has been known for his signature “Maria Clara” terno, and his work has been featured in international magazines.