Is there a monument more intriguing than one with a missing plaque? Here at the Don Alejandro Roces Sr. Monument, we find ourselves face-to-face with just such a puzzle. The statue itself is impressive: a bronze Don Alejandro Roces Sr. seated handsomely on a stately chair. Yet, ironically, there’s no readily apparent marker explaining who he was or why he’s honored here in Roces Circle at the end of Don Alejandro Roces Avenue in Quezon City. This monument stands as a testament to a man instrumental in shaping Quezon City. Mayor Herbert Bautista even acknowledged Don Alejandro Roces Sr.’s “influence” in the city’s creation. Roces played a key role in negotiations with the Tuazon family, securing a large portion of their hacienda. This land became the site for national government offices, including the precursor to today’s National Housing Authority. Don Alejandro Roces Sr.’s contributions extended beyond land acquisition. He was also involved in establishing laws that further expanded Quezon City. Beyond his contributions to Quezon City, Don Alejandro Roces Sr. holds a prominent place in Philippine history as the “Father of Philippine Journalism.” He was the driving force behind major publications like Taliba, La Vanguardia, and the Tribune. He even pioneered giving international news agencies access to his newspapers in 1917. The nine-foot bronze statue we see today is the work of artist Jonas Roces. It serves as the centerpiece of the Roces Rotunda, a testament to a man who shaped both a city and a nation’s media landscape. So, as we stand before this quiet giant, remember Don Alejandro Roces Sr. not just for the bronze and stone before us, but for the indelible mark he left on Quezon City and Philippine journalism.
Asian Social Institute
Deep within Manila stands the Asian Social Institute. It is more than just a school. It’s a crucible of social