MANILA, Philippines – Visitors of the House of Representatives will now see a new statue at the Batasang Pambansa complex: the 10-foot steel “No. 1” by Filipino visual artist Joe Datuin.

The new sculpture in front of the House’s Legislative Library, Archives, and Museum building was officially unveiled to the public by Datuin, outgoing Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and House acting secretary-general Roberto Maling on Thursday, June 13.

The sculpture contains “elements that connote a legislator’s salient roles,” while its No. 1 shape serves as a “visual reminder that excellence in legislation ensues when interest of the Filipino people is regarded foremost priority.”

Speaking to reporters, Arroyo said the “No. 1” will become part of the heart and soul of the House of Representatives. 

“A country has to have soul and heart. That’s part of our soul and heart, having artwork in the grounds,” said Arroyo.

Datuin’s other artworks are currently displayed at the South Wing lobby of Batasan. The artist himself toured Arroyo around the exhibit on Thursday afternoon.

In 2008, Datuin won the grand prize in the International Olympic Committee’s Sport and Art Contest of the Beijing Olympics.

The National Parks Development Committee and Hyundai Asia Resources later commissioned him to create monumental sculptures and mosaic art at Rizal Park in Manila.  

In 2009, Datuin received the Ani ng Dangal Award from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. – Rappler.com