He is the recipient of various awards and citations, including the Golden Centaur Award from the Academia Italia, Master of Painting honoris causa from the International Seminar of Modern Art, Bannierre Europeanne des Artes, and Medaglia al Merito from the International Parliament. He is also an elected fellow of the International Biographical Center (IBC) in Cambridge, England and the American Biographical Institute (ABI). In 1987 ABI awarded him Medal of Honor. World Decoration of Excellence Medal in 1989, and Man of the Year Award in 1991. IBC elected him to the Center's 1991 International Order of Merit, and in 1993, conferred him the Medal of Excellence for the 20th. Century.

During the Golden Anniversary of the Instituto Allende, Tabuena received a citation for his artistic talent and participation in its cultural events.

Romeo Tabuena reaps these awards not only for himself, but also for his country as well. He is considered a national treasure, and his works undoubtedly stand out among the finest artistic legacies of the Philippines.