Kärcher Philippines, the local subsidiary of the German cleaning technology company, has partnered with the National Museum of the Philippines to clean and preserve the GOMBURZA National Monument using conservation-safe technology.
The project coincides with Museum and Galleries Month, which promotes the protection of cultural heritage, and marks the 10th anniversary of Kärcher Philippines.
“This initiative reflects Kärcher’s belief that technology should serve memory and meaning,” said Darwin Banez, general manager of Kärcher Philippines. “Through the conservation-safe cleaning of the GOMBURZA National Monument, we are safeguarding cultural heritage by using careful, science-informed methods to bring back details time had obscured, so the public can read the artwork as its creator intended, while the monument’s integrity remains fully protected.”
The cleaning is part of Kärcher’s initiative to complete 90 restoration projects in celebration of its 90th anniversary in 2025. The company used a high-pressure cleaner in steam mode at 80-90 °C and low pressure of 0.5–1.0 bar to remove dirt and pollutants from the bronze statue while preserving its natural patina, which protects against corrosion.
Filipino sculptor Solomon Saprid created the monument, which was first unveiled in front of the Manila Cathedral in 1972 before being relocated to its current site. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines declared it a National Monument in 2021.
“Through this collaboration, Kärcher demonstrates a strong commitment to preserving our historical treasures while supporting the museum’s ongoing efforts in conservation and public education,” said Jeremy Barns, director general of the National Museum of the Philippines.
The cleaning also covered the surrounding plaza floors and granite perimeter using specialized equipment. The GOMBURZA Monument honors priests Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, who were executed in 1872 for their advocacy of Filipino clergy rights.
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