Pardon me for the long absence. It’s been hectic for the past weeks doing all sorts of things. Hey, I need to prioritize my life right? Anyway, aside from that, I can’t find the perfect material to blog about. What’s important is I’m back and that’s all that matters now.
I’m a big fan of cable news. During the recent US Presidential election, the White House was featured over and over again. There’s always a sense of awe and wonder on the activities being held there. I then started thinking of our very own Malacañang Palace. Then it struck me, I haven’t even been there! Oh my… tsk..tsk. I need to do something about this. How embarrassing to be a tourist in your own country.
I then had this bright idea of visiting the Presidential Museum in Malacañang Palace (the closest I can get). The Presidential Museum was built in 1921 during the American colonial era. The building was designed by Ralph Harrington Doane in elegant revivalist Renaissance style.
I initially noticed that in some writings, it says Malacañan (without the ‘g’) while in others Malacañang. I was told that ‘Malacañan’ in Spanish means the fisherman’ place because it is situated beside the Pasig River. When it was originally built, it served as the Executive Building (Malacañan). Later on, it was used as well as the official residence of the President of the Philippines thus (Malacañang with the ‘g’) was used to refer to the abode.
Filipinos in general are not museum goers. My appreciation for art and history was fueled to the nth power after I got married. Inside the museum, you can find the use of narra wood in abundance (our national tree – an expensive hard wood used mainly for furnitures). This table alone needs atleast 20 men just to nudge one corner. Notice the chandelier, you can find quite a number inside the museum and they were purchased either in Austria or Czech Republic (mental note to myself for my future abode – narra (check), chandelier (check)!).
Found this spectactular narra sculpture. The one who made this deserved a standing ovation from everyone.
I met as well General Taft of the Taft Avenue fame. Of course now, he can only be found at the commemorative plate!
For the non-Filipinos, this is our flag. For my countrymen, did you notice something peculiar in the photo below? Well, it’s upside down! This flag was seen this way during the Japanese occupation. The red was on top (instead of the usual blue) because it was war.
Did you know that the Independence Day was originally celebrated in July 4 (same as the Fil-American Friendship Day).
It was then re-set to June 12 in commemoration of the 1st Independence Day during Aguinaldo’s time in the late 19th century. That was the first time that the Philippine flag, the one that we are currently using was raised and waved proudly.
More historical facts coming your way. When Martial Law was declared in 1971 (years before I was born -- I’m not that old you see, just a year wiser), Marcos declared it on national tv sitting on this chair.
There was a room full of state gifts. From jewelries, books, paintings, ceramics. What caught my eye was this mountain climbing contraption given to President Gloria Macapagal 2 years ago by the first Filipino who climbed the top of Mt. Everest. For a moment, I was transported to my imaginary world where I am as famous as these people and have the opportunity to present the Chief Executive a state gift. Hmmm.. what will it be?
Now we go to my favorite room, the Main Hall. It was once the location of eight guest bedrooms during the American era. It was then renovated and served as the site for State Dinners and Citizens’ Assemblies during the Marcos administration. Today, the hall serves as the core of the museum housing the Gallery of President of the Philippines. The gallery featured personal memorabilia of the 14 Heads of State. Aside from the gallery, this hall contains thousands of books which belonged to former President Marcos. Wow, I wish I have this kind of library as well. The unique thing about this whole collection of books, you can even touch and open the pages. I think, If I did just that, it might take me 5 years to devour the entire contents!
President Magsaysay (1953-1957) had a unique showcase of business attire. Instead of the Barong Tagalog or suit, he is being represented by this peasant attire because during his term, he was known as the President of the Masses / common people. Too bad, his tenure was cut short when he died in a plane crash.
Last but not the least, I know.. I know.. you want to ask me something about the shoes right? Not mine I’m sure but that of First Lady Imelda Marcos. Well, I thought I’ll have a chance to try atleast 100 of her vast 3000+ collection. Well, only 2 were displayed! Yes, T-W-O! What a shame no? These two pairs were even normal pumps made locally (Marikina). Hay, hay..
So guys, I suggest make time to be here. Remember, you need a week to make your reservation. You can’t just show your face and expect royal treatment. It’s for security reason . Definitely, this is worth your time.
-r-
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