Rizal the Filipino Scientist 3D-printed monument inaugurated at the DOST
For many of us, it is common knowledge that aside from being a great novelist and poet, Dr. Jose P. Rizal was also a well-known ophthalmologist, agriculturist, engineer, and surveyor during the Spanish colonial period. In commemoration of the 125th year of his martyrdom, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aims to highlight his significant contributions in the field of science and use it to improve the lives of many Filipinos.
On 30 December 021, the DOST, in partnership with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), formally unveiled to the public the Rizal the Filipino Scientist 3D- printed monument and the historical marker inside the DOST Compound in Bicutan, Taguig City.
It is a 12.5 ft high statue and is considered the first and tallest 3D-printed monument in the country. Additionally, it can withstand winds of up to 330 kph and a 7.0 mg earthquake. Its design is inspired by the studies and work of historians and artists of the DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines and was then created by Professor Jose Manuel Sicat of the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Fine Arts.
DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña said that the establishment of this 3D printed monument of Dr. Jose P. Rizal will immortalize his patriotic deeds and symbolize how science, history, and arts can work together to produce meaningful products for the benefit of every Filipino.
“It is my hope that our Filipino youth will look up to this monument and will say gusto ko maging katulad ni Jose Rizal, matalino at may pagmamahal sa bayan. As I said Dr. Rizal did not do science for his own sake and to receive recognition, he did it for the sake of others. He did Science for the People,” said Secretary de la Peña.
Meanwhile, in her message, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara said that it is our fervent hope that Jose Rizal’s life as a model Filipino scientist, embodied in the largest 3D printed monument in the country, will be a reminder that scientists are heroes just like Dr. Rizal.
“We, at DOST, honor the life of Dr. Jose Rizal for his exemplary dedication to science, his advocacy for the truth, and the lives of the Filipino people. Tunay nating masasabi na si Dr. Jose Rizal ay para sa agham, katotohanan, at buhay,” said Usec. Guevara.
The said statue was 3D-scanned and 3D-printed at the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) of the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC). It was made only in less than two months to show AMCen’s capability to produce world-class products in less time as well as its ability to develop disaster resilient materials and structures through the 3D-printing technology.
On the other hand, in a virtual presser held two days earlier, DOST-MIRDC Executive Director Engr. Roberto O. Dizon said that they are proud to be able to have this opportunity to honor our National Hero.
“We hope this statue will inspire the new generation of young scientists to aim high and reach their dreams and help contribute to nation-building to bring the truth to the famous quotation of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Kabataan and Pag-asa ng Bayan,” said Executive Director Dizon.
Prof. Jose Manuel Sicat, the creator of the Rizal the Filipino Scientist Monument shared that the entire sculpture does not only feature the contributions of Dr. Jose P. Rizal in the field of science and technology, but it also sends a message that all scientific discoveries should be shared and used by every Filipino.
In his message, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chair Rene R. Escalante said that with the guidance of Rizal’s memory, he encouraged everyone to become victorious from the challenges of the present.
“Let us join forces in promoting science, truth, and life. Please accept our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the DOST on the unveiling of the historical marker and 3D monument,” said Chair Escalante.
Witnessing the historic moment was Taguig City 2nd District Representative Maria Laarni “Lani” Cayetano. In her message, she expressed her amazement on how science and technology can immortalize our national hero in the most artistic way possible.
“We are so proud that Taguig is home to the men and women who made this innovation possible. Having the 3D printing technology available in the country proves the competence and foresight of DOST,” said Representative Cayetano.
Rizal’s 3D statue is a tribute by the DOST to the life and legacy of Rizal and his contributions to the country especially in the field of science. The project to commemorate Rizal on his 125th martyrdom anniversary is a joint undertaking of the DOST-MIRDC, the DOST-NRCP, and the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute. (By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII)
