Malacañang Palace Welcomes Public for Christmas Celebrations and Simbang Gabi

Malacañang Palace in the Philippines has opened its doors to the public for the Christmas season, a move that reflects a tradition of inclusivity and community spirit. This gesture by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos is reminiscent of a tradition initiated by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos and First Lady Imelda R. Marcos. The grounds of the Palace have been made accessible for the entire nine nights of Simbang Gabi, a series of dawn masses leading up to Christmas, an occurrence that has not happened before for such an extended period. Presidential adviser Undersecretary Cesar Chavez highlighted that this is the first time the Palace has been open to the public for all nine Simbang Gabi nights.

The Palace, which is typically a symbol of political power, has transformed into a place of joy and faith for the holiday season. It features carnival rides, a beautifully lit Christmas tree, and the opportunity for families to enjoy the lush gardens. This initiative, aptly named “Tara sa Palasyo,” aims to create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie, with food stalls and complimentary puto bumbong and bibingka (native rice cakes) being given to attendees of the Simbang Gabi.

Children from nearby barangays have already enjoyed the carnival rides set up at Malacañang’s Kalayaan Grounds. Entrance to the area is free, with visitors only required to undergo a security check. The carnival, along with the food stalls, is open to the public until December 23 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. The opening of Malacañang for the entire Simbang Gabi is also seen as a symbol of the Palace belonging to the people, with Chavez stating that it is a tradition for Filipinos to welcome guests during Christmas and that President Marcos Jr. views this as a way of saying “welcome home” to the Filipino people​​​​​​.