Restored Lapulapu Statue in Rizal Park Re-Erected

The iconic 40-foot bronze Lapulapu statue in Rizal Park has been re-erected after a year-long restoration effort led by the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP). This significant statue, crafted by the multi-awarded Filipino sculptor Juan Sajid Imao, was originally installed in 2004 at the initiative of former Tourism Secretary Richard Gordon.

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Lapulapu statue in Rizal Park reinstalled

Image credit: (L-R) National Museum of the Philippines | Official Facebook page

The Lapulapu statue now stands proudly at the centre of the Agrifina Circle, specifically "the central grounds of the National Museum Complex towards its front-facing Maria Orosa Street, aligned with the Rizal Monument along the central axis of the park." This intentional placement of the statue, 400 feet from the Rizal Monument, symbolically represents the 400 years between the times of Lapulapu and Jose Rizal.

Over the years, significant corrosion and other structural issues were identified within and beneath the statue, raising concerns about its foundation. Consequently, the NMP removed the Lapulapu monument in 2023 for necessary structural restorations. The project underwent two phases: restoration and re-erection, meticulously guided by Imao and his team. Under the National Museum Act of 1998, the NMP is responsible for the preservation and maintenance of the Lapulapu monument at Rizal Park.

A hero’s history

Lapulapu is celebrated as the leader of the Visayan people who famously defeated the conquistador Ferdinand Magellan in the early 1500s. This victory delayed Spanish colonisation efforts in the Philippines by 35 years. Despite Lapulapu's warrior status, Imao chose to depict him as a figure of peace, standing firmly with both feet on the ground. "This monument would like to impart the message that the Filipino is a 'man of peace' yet is ready to protect his territory and people if threatened," Gordon stated during the unveiling of the statue in 2008.

In 2021, President Rodrigo Duterte issued Executive Order No. 152, mandating the spelling of the first Filipino hero's name as "Lapulapu" to align with historical references, while allowing the city of Lapu-Lapu in Cebu to retain its original spelling due to its established identity.

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The restoration of the Lapulapu statue in Rizal Park is not just a tribute to a historical figure but also a reflection of the country's dedication to preserving its rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Rizal Park can now witness this powerful symbol of Filipino resilience, unity, and peace standing tall once more, continuing to inspire future generations.

Featured image credit: Philippine News Agency