First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has lauded the teams that worked tirelessly to revive the iconic Coconut Palace.

“To everyone who worked quietly and helped make this five-month project possible — maraming salamat! You know who you are,” Mrs. Marcos wrote on her official Facebook page on Friday.

The landmark that famously showcases Filipino ingenuity, artistry, and sustainable architecture was reopened to the public on Tuesday.

According to the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), it will serve as one of the venues for the 49th ASEAN Leaders Summit in November.

Built in 1978, the Coconut Palace was designed by Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa, who was later named National Artist for Architecture and Allied Arts.

New chapter

“After months of careful restoration, it felt good to see this beautiful piece of our history begin a new chapter. Every detail was thoughtfully renewed using local materials and the incredible craftsmanship of Filipino hands — preserving the character, artistry and soul that make the Coconut Palace distinctly our own,” the First Lady said.

“As they say, some people are busy taking credit, others are busy getting the job done,” the First Lady said.

Located in Pasay City, the iconic landmark is renowned for its distinctly Filipino architecture and extensive use of coconut-based materials, reflecting the country’s architectural creativity and cultural heritage.

GSIS acting executive vice president Joseph Phillip Andres earlier said the agency is considering allowing public access to the newly restored property, with the possibility of imposing entrance fees.

The proposal, however, remains subject to the approval of the GSIS Board of Trustees.

Andres said the Coconut Palace was previously open to the public without an entrance fee, but fees may be charged for private events and specific bookings.