MANILA, Philippines: In a show of commitment to preserving the nation’s history and strengthening diplomatic ties, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. organized a guided tour of the Philippines’ historic homes of manila for ambassadors assigned to the country. This initiative aimed to showcase Filipino culture and highlight the President’s efforts in restoring and preserving Philippine heritage sites.
The tour began at the newly restored Laperal Mansion, located on Arlegui Street in San Miguel, Manila. Situated just a few blocks away from Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the Philippine president, the mansion welcomed diplomats with its tropical touches and meticulous design. The fourteen beautifully crafted bedrooms and two sun rooms, named after past presidents, were the work of the country’s most talented artisans and designers. Additionally, the mansion boasted three state rooms, paying homage to key figures in Philippine history: Magellan, MacArthur, and Rizal. This collaborative effort not only revived the heritage of the mansion but also showcased the local talent and celebrated foreign diplomacy.
The Laperal Mansion now serves as the official Presidential Guest House for foreign heads of state or government. It embodies the Filipino brand of hospitality and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision to strengthen and expand the Philippines’ relations with its international partners, as stated by the Palace.
The ambassadors also had the opportunity to visit the Goldenberg Mansion, a former presidential guest house, and the Teus Mansion, which currently houses the Presidential Museum. The Goldenberg Mansion, built by the Eugsters, a Spanish merchant family in the late 19th century, served as the home and headquarters of US Military Governor Arthur Macarthur Jr., father of General Douglas Macarthur. After being purchased by cosmetics manufacturer Michael Goldenberg, the mansion was restored by Filipino architect Leandro Locsin in 1975. It later became a guest house for hosting guests and visiting dignitaries during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
The Teus Mansion, acquired after the Goldenberg Mansion, now serves as a treasure trove of priceless Philippine history. This 19th-century home showcases the vibrant and diverse history of Philippine presidents through its vast collection of memorabilia. Visitors can explore presidential attire, footwear, flags, and busts sculpted in the likeness of former leaders. Portraits of the former First Ladies, including First Lady Araneta Marcos herself, are also on display. The Teus Mansion has been transformed into a Presidential Museum, allowing the public to delve into the rich heritage of the Philippines.
The ambassadors also had the opportunity to tour Bahay Ugnayan, a home that holds President Marcos’ “Road to Malacañang.” This exhibit offers a fascinating insight into the milestones that led to his return to the palace. All three historic homes, including the Laperal Mansion, the Goldenberg Mansion, and the Teus Mansion, have been restored as museums and are open to the public free of charge.
The Malacañang Heritage Tours, spearheaded by the First Lady, aim to preserve the remarkable contributions of past Philippine presidents to nation-building. Guided tours are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For those interested in experiencing this immersive journey through history, reservations can be made by emailing sosec@malacanang.gov.ph or by calling (02) 8735-6080. The tour organizers can also be reached through Facebook.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Philippines and explore these historic homes that stand as testaments to the nation’s past. Discover the vibrant culture, remarkable architecture, and the stories behind each artifact. Join the Malacañang Heritage Tours and experience the legacy of the Philippines firsthand.
Join the Malacañang Heritage Tours and embark on an unforgettable odyssey through the annals of Philippine history. Witness the legacy of generations past come to life before your eyes and gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry that makes up the Filipino heritage. Experience the allure of yesteryears as you immerse yourself in the captivating allure of these historic homes, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
Source: The Manila Times
