Malacañang Palace started opening one of its gates to the public yesterday so Filipinos can view the Christmas tree and lanterns while attending dawn Masses on its grounds through a celebratory program "Tara sa Palasyo."
President Ferdinand "Bongbong Marcos Jr. last week announced the opening to Filipinos from all walks of life of the edifice that has been serving as the seat of power in the Philippines since the Spanish rule.
The Palace grounds are now open to the public up to 24 December, from 7 p.m. up to 6 a.m. the next day, according to a report of the Philippine News Agency.
The traditional Simbang Gabi, which will be until 24 December, will give the public the chance to view the Christmas Tree and parols, the Palace announced.
Simbang Gabi will be held at 4:30 a.m., in front of the Mabini Hall. Those visiting Malacañang can enter the Palace Grounds through
Gate 6.
President Marcos announced the opening of the Malacañang grounds for the traditional Simbang Gabi during the Christmas party held for the employees of the Office of the President last Friday.
Early this month, the President led the lighting of the Christmas tree at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang, and also spearheaded a gift-giving event and Christmas celebration in front of the Palace.
The President said his goal is to make sure that every Filipino child will have a joyful and meaningful Christmas.