Montemaria

The kitschy towering statue of Montemaria of Batangas, is the absolute embodiment of Filipino spirituality. It represents the very essence of Filipino Catholicism, it is both respectful and irreverent of its Catholic identity. Sculpted by artist Eduardo Castillo, the statue is style is reminiscent of  indigenous anito statues of highland Filipino animism. Unlike other statues that were purpose built for reverence and tribute, the statue hosts rentable facilities inside such as a food hall and convention area. Windows built into the crest of Mary offers amazing views of Batangas cliffs and nature all around. I think the behind it was, well if we are going to build a giant statue why not make it useable and generate income? Its quintessential symbol of the commercialization of religion.

The Tower of Montemaria, while an impressive feat of engineering, has been marred by its commercialization. By converting the sacred space into a real estate venture, the developers have undermined the spiritual significance of the monument. Renting out halls within the statue and offering residential units diminishes the awe-inspiring nature of the structure, transforming it into a mere commercial property. This blatant disregard for religious symbolism and the sanctity of the site has rendered the Tower of Montemaria a tacky and materialistic spectacle.