Lapu-Lapu City denounces removal of Lapu-Lapu’s statue from Rizal Park

CEBU - The Lapu-Lapu City Council has passed a resolution condemning the destruction and removal of the monument of Lapu-Lapu, the first Filipino hero, from the Rizal Park in Manila.

The city council also directed the city attorney to institute possible legal action against all parties liable for the destruction.

During the council’s regular session last Wednesday, councilors said they believed that the monument of Lapu-Lapu, installed at the Rizal Park during the incumbency of former Tourism Secretary Richard Gordon, was to honor the Cebuanos, most especially the people of Lapu-Lapu City.

According to Councilor Eugene Espedido, the installation of the Lapu-Lapu monument gives recognition to the admirable courage and deep sense of patriotism of the late chieftain of Mactan.

The statue, which was unveiled last February 5, was a gift from South Korea to the Filipino people through the Korean Freedom League.

The National Historical Institute reportedly opposed the putting up of the monument of Lapu-Lapu at the Rizal Park. NHI officials said only the monuments of heroes of the Philippine Revolution could stand at the Agrifina Circle in Rizal Park.

Despite NHI’s objection, the monument of Lapu-Lapu was unveiled at Rizal Park after President Arroyo gave Gordon the clearance.

The Cebu Tri-Media Association the other day passed a resolution condemning the destruction of the monument and asking Tourism Secretary Roberto Pagdanganan for the immediate reinstallation of the monument.

CTMA officials also asked Mrs. Arroyo for the immediate replacement of Ambeth Ocampo as chairman of the NHI.

CTMA president Rolando Manatad said the association is now gathering signatures from Cebuanos for support. — Freeman News Service