Kärcher, a world-renowned German brand and global leader in professional cleaning technology, has partnered with the National Museum of the Philippines to conduct a conservation-safe cleaning of the GOMBURZA National Monument — blending advanced cleaning technology with heritage preservation.
The project aligns with the nationwide celebration of Museum and Galleries Month every October, which highlights the preservation and promotion of the country’s cultural heritage.
The initiative underscores Kärcher’s continuing commitment to cultural preservation and social responsibility. It forms part of the company’s 90th-anniversary challenge to complete 90 cleaning projects around the world in 2025 and coincides with the 10th anniversary of Kärcher Philippines.
“This initiative reflects Kärcher’s belief that technology should serve memory and meaning. 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,” said Darwin Banez, General Manager of Kärcher Philippines.
“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. We look forward to presenting this monument in a refreshed and pristine condition—ready to inspire and be admired by thousands of visitors, tourists, and commuters alike,” said Jeremy R. Barns, Director General of National Museum of the Philippines.
The bronze statue of GOMBURZA was cleaned with a Kärcher high-pressure cleaner in steam mode at 80–90 °C, a low pressure of 0.5–1.0 bar and a water flow of 350 liters per hour, following on-site assessments. This low-pressure, high-temperature process removed dust, oils, and pollutants while preserving the bronze’s natural patina—the green coloration formed as bronze reacts with oxygen—which acts as a protective layer against corrosion.
The surrounding betone/brick plaza floors were deep-cleaned using Kärcher’s Dirt Blaster (3,500 rpm) at 80 °C, 100–110 bar and water flow of 700 liters per hour. The low granite perimeter was treated with the same settings using a 25° wide nozzle for a gentler spray, effectively clearing organic and surface deposits without abrasion.
The GOMBURZA National Monument commemorates the three martyred priests, Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, who advocated for the rights of Filipino clergy during the Spanish colonial period and were executed on February 17, 1872, following accusations related to the Cavite Mutiny.
Created by Filipino sculptor Solomon Saprid, the monument was first inaugurated in front of the Manila Cathedral on January 17, 1972, before being transferred to its present site. On February 17, 2021, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines recognized Saprid’s GOMBURZA among the nation’s official National Monuments.
This October, Kärcher Philippines reached a “10–10–10” milestone: its 10th conservation project, delivered in the 10th month of its 10th anniversary year. What began in 2015 with a two-person team has grown into a strong subsidiary with 32 specialists across diverse fields. From the Kärcher Center in Sucat, Parañaque City, and a Cebu sales and service hub, the team, now under General Manager Darwin Banez, built a nationwide network and a reputation for reliable, high-performance cleaning solutions.
Beyond its products, Kärcher Philippines has strengthened its public presence through cultural sponsorships, cleanup campaigns, and community initiatives that reflect the company’s values. This year’s collaboration with the National Museum of the Philippines on the GOMBURZA National Monument marks the 10th heritage site in the country to benefit from Kärcher’s conservation cleaning, joining Fort Santiago, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Silang Church, San Sebastian Basilica, Plaza Miranda, Bonifacio Shrine, San Agustin Church, People Power Monument, and Rizal Monument.
