BAGUIO CITY — First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the annual Christmas tree-lighting at The Mansion — the President’s summer residence here — on Thursday.

The event drew visitors, especially young ones, to one of the country’s historic landmarks.

Now on its second year, the lighting ceremony formally ushered in the Christmas festivities at The Mansion, a fresh holiday attraction in the City of Pines.

Joining Mrs. Marcos was former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro, Baguio City Rep. Mauricio Domogan and Mayor Benjamin Magalong.

Summer Palace enters new chapter

Moving forward on its exciting new chapter, The Mansion opened its doors to new and returning guests, welcoming them to take a look at the Presidential Museum and the history of the Baguio City landmark.

Valuable memorabilia and artifacts of past Philippine presidents offer guests a closer look at the history and legacy of the presidency.

Completed in 1908 during the American colonial period, The Mansion served for more than a century primarily as the official summer residence of sitting presidents. Its reopening in 2024 marked a significant milestone, roughly 116 years after its completion, transforming it from a symbolic seat of power into a space where the public can directly engage with presidential history.

With the annual Christmas tree-lighting sparking an overdue holiday tradition, The Mansion continues to evolve, not only as a historical and cultural destination, but also as part of Baguio City’s growing roster of seasonal attractions as the city ushers in the Christmas season.