For over a decade, Filipinos have not seen a First Lady in Malacañang Palace. That is until the arrival of Liza Araneta-Marcos, who brought her own “motherly touch” to the seat of power.
Notable changes have since been observed, such as the renovation of buildings within the Palace grounds, the reorganization of offices for social occasions, and the vibrant revival of celebrations in Malacañang.
Christmas is a little different with the First Lady at the helm. At the end of November, she traveled to Baguio to lead the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at The Mansion, which reopened to the public in September.
The event marked the beginning of the Christmas season in Baguio, the most-visited city during the holidays, known for its cold weather that completes the holiday cheer.
She welcomed families to the summer palace and enjoyed performances by locals while showcasing a display of Pinoy Christmas decorations, described by the Office of the Social Secretary as “a reflection of the country’s rich heritage.”
“Baguio Mansion House shines once again!” she exclaimed, beaming with joy as children played nearby. “Christmas is all about sharing love and bringing joy, especially to the kids. Seeing their playful smiles completely made my day!”
In December, Mrs. Marcos and her family led another Christmas tree lighting celebration, this time in Malacañang.
Families and friends were welcomed to the Palace to enjoy the gigantic Christmas tree adorned with colorful ornaments. Stunning musical and dance performances lit up the evening, along with an award ceremony for a parol-making contest that truly signaled the arrival of the Christmas season.
The First Lady also hosted the 9th Goldenberg Concert Series at the Goldenberg Mansion in Malacañang.
With the theme “Himig ng Pasko” (Christmas Melody), Mrs. Marcos invited US-based singer Anya Lagman and the University of Santo Tomas Singers to serenade young children with Christmas carols.
Train ride
On 8 December, children were welcomed back to Malacañang for a simple Christmas party and gift-giving through the “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya” event, now on its third iteration and held simultaneously across the country, benefiting thousands of young children.
Visitors enjoyed a train ride with the First Family, a playful bounce house, and carnival rides.
Two weeks before Christmas, Malacañang Palace opened its doors to the public for the traditional Simbang Gabi or dawn Masses.
Under the theme “Tara sa Palasyo,” Simbang Gabi was held on the Palace grounds for nine days, from 16 to 24 December. This tradition, rooted in the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, reflects the Filipino people’s deep Catholic faith.
Likewise, the public was invited to attend the Misa de Gallo from 4 a.m. to 5 a.m. After the Mass, crowds enjoyed traditional kakanin like puto bumbong and bibingka, as well as hot chocolate, staples of the Christmas season.
In the evenings during this period, Filipinos were invited to enjoy Christmas displays with live music, food, and carnival rides, including the Space Rocket, Mini Pirate Ship, Carousel and Trackless Train.
Other attractions, such as claw machines and basketball arcades, were also available for entertainment. The Palace gates were open for these activities from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Beyond the typical ceremonial celebrations seen at the Palace, the festivities this year exuded a refreshing yet nostalgic charm. The involvement of the First Lady, a mother herself, added a wholesome touch, as she sifted through the overwhelming spirit of Christmas to create wonderful memories and “new” traditions for everyone to cherish. RICHBON QUEVEDO