Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos C. Salinas and Andorra la Vella Mayor unveil Rizal bust at Parc Central in Andorra la Vella.
16 March 2012 – The Philippine Embassy in Madrid reported that Ambassador Carlos C. Salinas, together with Andorra la Vella Mayor Maria Rosa Ferrer Obiols, unveiled a bronze bust of Dr. Jose Rizal at Andorra la Vella´s Parc Central on 15 March 2012 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Dr. Jose Rizal.
The bronze bust, donated by Philippine Honorary Consul General to Andorra Hans Peter Holbach, was made by the Andorran sculptor Angel Calvente and measures 50x30x216 centimeters.
In his speech, Ambassador Salinas highlighted the importance of Rizal to the Filipino people and how he continues to inspire his fellowmen. He also took the opportunity to express his appreciation to the Government and people of Andorra for the warm welcome and excellent treatment accorded to Filipinos who live and work in the country. There are an estimated 800 Filipinos in Andorra.
On the other hand, Mayor Ferrer acknowledged the significance of the life and work of Rizal. She noted that Rizal serves as an inspiration for all freedom-loving peoples, including Andorra. She also took the opportunity to recognize the contributions of Filipinos in Andorra
Key Andorran government officials such as Head of Parliament Vincenc Mateu Zamora, Andorran Foreign Minister Gilbert Saboya Sunyé, Andorra la Vella Mayor Maria Rosa Ferrer Obiols, and members of the city council of Andorra la Vella, the Diplomatic Corps of Andorra, and the Filipino community graced the special occasio