The 19-meter tall ‘Arco de Emperador’, a masterpiece of Spanish sculptor Gines Serran Pagan that highlights the Filipinos’ potential for greatness and success, is reminiscent of Madrid’s Arco de la Victoria and Paris’ Arc de Triomphe

“Everyone can be an Emperador (Emperor in English).”

Such was the inspiration embraced by award-winning Spanish sculptor Gines Serran Pagan in crafting the Arco de Emperador monument—the 19-meter tall, iconic arch monument in Arcovia City, Megaworld’s 12.3-hectare township along C-5 Road in Pasig City. 

Artistry and greatness take the spotlight through Pagan’s nine massive sculptures standing proudly side-by-side atop the arch. This imposing masterpiece is composed of a victorious Emperor, three horses pulling his chariot, two lions named Pride and Passion, and two trumpeting angels coated in 24K gold.

The monument was first designed in 2013, but the actual work on the bronze sculpture began in 2015 and ended a year after. However, the last pieces – the two golden angels-- were only completed late last year and installed just a few days ago.

The arch monument will be also be highlighted by cascading waterfalls leading to the water feature at the basement area where the future museum will be built. It will also be surrounded by a landscaped plaza with benches.

At night, the monument will be illuminated in colors, making it a vibrant centerpiece of Arcovia City as seen along C-5 Road. 

“We have created this as a tourism landmark for Metro Manila that brings out the message of how hardwork, passion and perseverance can create a self-made successful man. This is how an Emperor is made,” reveals Kevin L. Tan, EVP and chief strategy officer, Megaworld.

The inspiration for the Arco de Emperador stems from the idea of ‘self-made success’ that characterizes the ‘Emperor.’ Unlike kings who inherit the throne, an emperor only gains power and becomes the leader of an empire the moment he wins a war.

“Our vision for Arcovia City is to ignite the passion of the young generation to commit themselves to work hard, nurture their passions, and succeed in whatever path they want to pursue. This thrust will be brought to life through the installations and attractions that will inspire people to cultivate passions and celebrate their milestones,” adds Tan.

Through the Arco de Emperador, Pagan brings to life what Arcovia City is truly all about: the affirmation that everyone—no matter who they are, what their background is, or where they came from—can work their way towards success. More importantly, it embodies how today’s generation celebrates personal triumphs and victories.

The bronze monument is expected to last for thousands of years, just like the famous bronze statues of Europe, which turn into greenish color as years, and even centuries pass by.  

“The angels, together with the animals and the Emperador, form a symbolic group—a sculptural group that is unique here in the Philippines,” Pagan adds.

“The idea behind the sculpture practically [celebrates] the triumph of personal achievement. It’s a symbol that everyone can make it in life, and this is the philosophy of Dr. Andrew Tan, founder of Megaworld. He wanted to fulfill the message of effort and hardwork, and achievement, and that everyone can truly be an emperador,” explains Pagan.

The Arco de Emperador is located inside Megaworld’s Arcovia City, a new township development in Pasig City.

Arcovia City is strategicially located within close proximity to the business districts of Fort Bonifacio, Makati City, Ortigas Center and Eastwood City.

The 12.3-hectare township development will be composed of residential towers, office towers, a lifestyle mall, open parks and gardens, and Landers Superstore.