A government agency in the Philippines has spoken out to clarify they have not condemned incoming Tekken 7 character Josie Rizal.
When Josie Rizal was first introduced, many Filipinos were happy to be represented in the game. However, many were also upset, feeling the character was a poor portrayal of Filipinos. Some were particulary unhappy that she took her name from one of the Philippines’ foremost heroes, Jose Rizal.
Josie Rizal’s design and creation were collaborated upon by Tekken head Katsuhiro Harada, character designer Mari Shimazaki, and Filipino and Madcatz global community and sponsorship manager Markman23. Josie’s name was intended as an ode to said hero.
A few days back, NCCA coordinator and educator Dr. Leodenito Cañete spoke out against the character, stating that he was looking for ways to correct the historical figure’s image. Unfortunately, this was misreported as the NCCA making a statement regarding the game and character.
The NCCA has now made an official statement stating that Cañete is not an official or a member of the NCCA’s commission. They are currently investigating the case and will issue a statement later, but have no official position as of this time.
Harada, for his part, explained why Josie was created. Although the Philippines represents a very small segment of the Tekken community, he wanted to make Josie as something special for them. Harada has visited the Philippines several times and felt the potential of their Tekken community.
Harada also states that if push came to shove, they can easily remove and / or replace Josie, thanks to Tekken 7’s network update system, which is present in all their arcade boards. Tekken 7 is still in location testing in the arcades, although it is expected to be released for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
How do you feel about Josie Rizal in Tekken 7? Would you like to see her get a name change, a redesign, or be removed altogether? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
