Canadian city unveils life-size Rizal statue in its ‘Luneta Gardens’

From left to right: Majid Jowhari, MP – Richmond Hill; Markham Councillor Isa Lee; Salma Zahid, MP – Scarborough Centre; Mogi Mogado, Sculptor; Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti; Former Markham Councillor, Alex Chiu; Deputy Consul General of Philippines in Toronto, Bernadette Therese Fernandez; Markham CAO

MARKHAM, Ontario — To mark 121 years of the Philippines’ independence, the City of Markham recently held a celebration and unveiled a life-size monument to the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. José Rizal, in the city’s Luneta Gardens.

This first-of-its-kind project is the result of a partnership between the City and the Filipino Canadian Community of Markham.

The cold cast bronze monument six feet tall and is installed on a granite pedestal that is seven feet tall, with an estimated life span of more than 50 years. The site for this monument was chosen because of the close proximity to Rizal Avenue. The monument and surrounding Luneta Park is a significant addition to Markham’s beautification and public art portfolio.

The Dr. José Rizal monument is the newest addition to Markham’s Public Art collection and, under the leadership of former Markham councillor Alex Chiu, was gifted to the City by the Filipino Canadian Community of Markham to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday.

“Through his silent protest, Dr. Rizal galvanized and inspired generations of people,” says Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “The monument honors a man who spent his life advocating the very values that define us as Canadians — multiculturalism and social cohesion. The Filipino-Canadian community’s generosity is appreciated and is a reflection of our community — welcoming and inclusive. We are united by our love for this country and love for Markham.”

Rizal and is widely regarded by his homeland as the greatest Filipino that ever lived. Rizal was a medical doctor, teacher, farmer, author, poet and political reformer, who envisioned a social order where democracy, freedom, equality, and universal brotherhood would be the norms.

According to Mogi Mogado, Markham artist and creator of the monument, this gift “will honor a man who spent his life advocating for ideas and principles that inspire generations of freedom fighters around the world. Dr. Rizal’s writings embody ideas that inspire and support multiculturalism in Canada, and harmonious living amidst diversity as exemplified today in our thriving Markham communities.”

Public Art was identified as a priority in Markham’s Integrated Leisure Master Plan, Culture Plan, Public Realm Strategy and Markham’s Official Plan as a means of demonstrating the unique character of the City’s neighborhoods, heritage districts and business areas, enhancing public spaces, defining gateways, creating landmarks, recognizing local culture identity and engaging the public.