Kärcher, a Germany-based worldwide leader in cleaning technology, in collaboration with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the National Parks Development Committee, recently launched the cleanup project restoring the Rizal Monument in Rizal Park.
The morning started with a short program, which included words of appreciation from various representatives and stakeholders: German Ambassador Gordon Kricke, NHCP Deputy Executive Director Carminda Arevalo, NPDC Director Penelope Belmonte, and Kärcher Country Manager Zurich Fernandez.
Cleaning experts from Kärcher’s headquarters in Germany were also present in the event. Thorsten Möwes, specialist for cleaning and hygiene technology and restorative cleaning projects, said that the equipment used to clean the monument was Kärcher’s steam cleaning machine.
“Here, we decided to use steam cleaning because the soil [present in the monument] is just emission dirt from cars and industry,” Möwes explained.
Möwes, together with his team, then headed towards the monument itself to demonstrate how steam cleaning worked. With just a simple press of a button, the nozzle of the machine emitted low-pressure water, as well as steam The process also didn’t have to include the use of soap or any kind of detergent.
The cleanup of the monument, was held ahead of the celebration of the 121st death anniversary commemorating the martyrdom of our National Hero on Dec. 30. Kärcher has only been in the Philippines since 2015, but has committed to execute their corporate social responsibility to support the preservation of cultural heritage in the country.
The German company Kärcher has been cleaning historic monuments for 35 years for free, as part of their global cleanup initiative called Kärcher Cleans the World. Since then, they have restored over 100 monuments worldwide, such as Mount Rushmore in the US, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, London Eye in the UK, The Colonnades in St. Peter’s Square, Rome, and the Merlion in Singapore.
Country manager Zurich Fernandez said that the Kärcher Cleans The World motto is one that the company prioritizes, having already demonstrated their competence and expertise in these projects.
“Through these types of cultural sponsorships, Kärcher is making a unique and very personal contribution to cultural heritage which goes far beyond simple donations as we dedicated ourselves with our experience, our knowledge, and our technology,” he said.
Kärcher donated their steam cleaning equipment to the NHCP and NDCP, and their teams of experts are available to support the people at the said government agencies.
The launch was supported by MyPhone, the first local brand of cellular phone in the Philippines and Rizal Park Hotel, a historic boutique hotel and former Army Navy Club built in 1911 , which is declared as a national heritage site.
For more info, please visit www.kaercher.com.ph.