The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has confirmed that the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal is missing from its pedestal at Place Jose Rizal in Paris, France. According to reports, the bust was possibly removed on the night of October 25 to 26, 2025.
The Philippine Embassy in Paris reported the loss to local authorities and is continuing to coordinate for the investigation. According to DFA spokesperson Angelica Escalona, they continue to work with French officials and the Filipino community to find or replace the missing monument.
Escalona explained that the embassy first waited for information from the City of Paris before issuing a statement to avoid misinformation and respect the investigation process.
The DFA affirmed that it will continue to preserve the memory and values that represent Rizal while doing all possible means to restore or replace the bust.
The Rizal bust was erected in June 2024 to commemorate the heroism of Dr. Jose Rizal. According to the DFA, it is the only public bust of a Filipino hero in all of Paris.
