Bust of Ferdinand Marcos

The concrete bust of this prominent political figure stands approximately 30 meters tall on Mount Shontoug along the Aspiras-Palispis Highway in Tuba, Benguet. The structure dominates the mountain landscape and is visible from the Marcos Highway connecting Pugo to Baguio City.

Construction took place between 1978 and 1980 under the Philippine Tourism Authority as part of major state-sponsored building efforts. An explosion in 2002 damaged the upper portion significantly and altered its appearance permanently.

The monument occupies land with deep roots in indigenous heritage, where Ibaloi communities maintained a presence for generations. Today, visitors sense the connection between this location and the local groups whose history shaped the landscape.

The site is best reached via the Marcos Highway, which comes directly from Pugo and provides good sightlines to the structure. Visiting during daylight hours allows you to fully take in the surrounding mountain landscape.

Two artists involved in this project passed away before completion, making the work's finishing bittersweet for those who continued it. The structure remained hidden behind scaffolding for an extended period during construction before becoming accessible to the public.

Location: Pugo

Inception: 1980

GPS coordinates: 16.35361,120.49000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:02