Towering 64 feet or about six stories high, posted along the entrance of DoubleDragon Meridian Park, stands a new public art installation depicting a figure of a young person named “BAYANI”. Not far down the road is another piece waving at passersby along EDSA named “PAG-ASA”. The ultra-modern stainless steel sculptures were designed by globally-renowned Filipino artist Jefrí« Figueras Manuel.
Dedicated to the Filipino youth, the sculptures symbolize the future of the country as the young median age of the Philippine population is one of the key driving forces that fuel economic growth. It also symbolizes the aspiration of making the Philippines into one of the largest economies in the world within the next few decades.
“The Filipino words BAYANI and PAG-ASA are a huge inspiration to create sculptures in this region of the Philippines. You need one and the other. The idea of a hero wouldn’t exist without hope and with hope, you can become a hero,” Jefrí« shared.
“I believe that the Filipino youth have the potential to be recognized as active participants in worldwide activities, hence the globe for the head. They’re both composed of very hard metal that is polished and brushed to perfection – very much like the story of the Filipino youth,” he added.
With these installations, DD Meridian Park will have a stronger sense of place and identity.
The company is confident that this landmark modern art tribute to the Filipino youth will be embraced and valued by the public and that they will identify and be inspired with the heroism and hope that it intends to impart.
“We hope that this tribute to the Filipino youth, Bayani and Pag-asa, will in some way or another spark inspiration in our hearts and minds to remind all of us that the Philippines has what it takes to become a highly prosperous first world country.” said DoubleDragon and DDMP REIT Inc Chairman Edgar “Injap” Sia II.
