However, by the time of its completion, Spain no longer has control of the Philippines, which was now annexed by the United States of America. The monument arrived in the Philippines but was not installed till 1901 by the then Provost-Marshall-General Dwight F. Davis[2] who also installed many of the monuments still in storage
The monument was virtually untouched during the fierce artillery fights and bombings of the Liberation of Manila[3], only incurring minor damage to its bronze, which was quickly repaired by Anastacio Caedo.[4] However, desecration from 21st century vandals have removed some of its bronze furnishings.[5]
The monument pays homage to Miguel López de Legazpi, Spanish conquistador and Andrés de Urdaneta, friar and maritime explorer, of which their bronze statues are placed on top of a marble plinth. Legazpi holds the flag on his left hand and a scroll on his right, allegorical representations of expedition, sea and valor. Urdaneta holds a cross on his right hand and a book on his left, representations of Christianity and science. On his feet is a large anchor, representing his maritime prowess.[1]
On the front and rear of the top part of the plinth are arms of Manila and Spain. In its sides lists the names of explorers: Magallanes, Loaisa, Elcano, and Villalobos. Near the bottom of plinth is a lady in laurels holding a plate bearing the inscription XXIV Junio MDCXXI.[1]
