A bust of Dr. José Rizal in Paris has been reported missing, confirmed by the Philippine Embassy in France on Tuesday. The Department of Foreign Affairs, (DFA) stated that the embassy is now working with local authorities and the Filipino community to recover or replace the monument, which is believed to have been taken between October 25 and 26.
Located in Paris’ 9th arrondissement, the Rizal bust was unveiled in 2022 through a partnership between the Filipino community in France and the local city government, commemorating the 75th anniversary of Philippines-France diplomatic relations.
The DFA emphasized its significance, saying, “The bust of Dr. José Rizal served as a cherished landmark for Filipinos in Paris and a symbol of enduring friendship between the Philippines and France. While the motive behind the removal remains unknown, public monuments are often vulnerable to vandalism or even destruction or theft.”
Authorities have yet to identify the suspects, but the disappearance of the national hero’s monument has sparked concern among Filipinos abroad, highlighting ongoing threats to public art and cultural landmarks.
