I don't have any experience with the PIC controllers yet but the COP472N-3 uses a microwire interface which I beleive is similar to SPI but not sure if its compatable. Once I become more familiar with the PIC I would like to interface with this driver as well because our company uses this driver in our LCD displays for a product we produce. There are some application notes here:
http://www.national.com/mpf/CO/COP472-3.html#DatasheetHope this helps and keep me informed of your progress.
-MadMax