Newly unveiled sculpture at House aims to remind solons to prioritize public interest

Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Thursday led the unveiling of a new sculpture at the House of Representatives Complex that would serve as a reminder that the interest of the Filipino people should be the priority in legislation.

In a program held in the lobby of the Legislative Library, Archives and Museum building at the House, Arroyo signed the deed of donation for the sculpture, aptly titled "No. 1," by artist Joe Datuin.

Speaker Arroyo graces the ceremonial signing of the deed of donation and unveiling of “No. 1” visual sculpture by artist Joe Datuin. @gmanews pic.twitter.com/4mcHGAYPAK

— Erwin Colcol (@erwincolcol) June 13, 2019

Speaker Arroyo unveils the “No. 1” sculpture. pic.twitter.com/kbWzwCCGSp

— Erwin Colcol (@erwincolcol) June 13, 2019

The 10-foot steel artwork, situated in front of the archives building, is composed of elements that connote the roles of a lawmaker and resembles the number "1".

According to the advisory for the program, the structure serves as a "visual reminder that excellence in legislation ensues when the interest of the Filipino people is regarded foremost priority."

Datuin, who won the grand prize in the International Olympic Committee's Sports and Art Contest during the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China, was also present during the signing of the deed of donation and the unveiling of the artwork.

His other masterpieces are on display at the South Wing Lobby of the House of Representatives' main building.

Arroyo said that the public artwork is essential for the lawmakers' "soul and heart."

"A country has to have soul and heart. So that's part of our soul and heart, having artwork in the grounds," she said. — BM, GMA News