National Hero Dr. José P. Rizal - a symbol of patriotism - was executed by a Spanish colonial firing squad at THIS very spot on December 30, 1896.
These 7-8 feet high statues faithfully represents that day of infamy - including the dog and Rizal's attending Jesuit priest - way back then.
He spent his final days incarcerated as an 'enemy of the state' here http://www.pbase.com/carinoza/fort_santiago .

This 1991 sculpture located at the Rizal Park/Luneta is made by famed Philippine sculptor Eduardo Castrillo http://www.eduardocastrillo.com/ .