Filipinos are known around the world for their hospitality and President Marcos has become the best exemplar of this unique distinction whenever he hosts foreign dignitaries at Malacañan Palace.
United States Vice President Kamala Harris meets President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. during her visit to the Philippines on November 21, 2022. (Photo from the Presidential Communications Office)
In his latest vlog, the Chief Executive detailed the preparations that are made for visiting heads of states and other high-ranking officials.
Marcos explained this was the reason why there have been renovation at the Palace compound these past months.
“Kaya nitong mga nakaraang buwan ay may dinagdag tayo na latest addition sa ating Filipino hospitality asset (These past months, we added to our Filipino hospitality asset),” the President said.
“Ito ang parang lodging o tuluyan ng ating mga bisita—guest house. Imbes na magho-hotel pa sila sa malayo, mata-traffic, mahihirapan sa mga schedule ng mga meeting, dito na lang sila malapit sa Palasyo (These are the lodgings for our visitors—guest house. Instead of them staying in a hotel which is far, only to be stuck in traffic, and would have trouble with their scheduled meetings, they can stay here near the Palace),” he added.
The Chief Executive explained that some neglected houses inside the Palace compound were renovated.
Furthermore, Marcos makes it a point to line the streets where the dignitaries would pass through with their countries' flags.
Based on his experience, this regular protocol practice for visiting heads of states and officials makes them feel more welcome.
He has also pointed out that streets should be clean and buildings with peeling and fading paint are retouched.
The Chief Executive said the presentations should be adapted to the the customs and practices of the country of the visiting dignitary.
Palace visitors have been interested in the bamboo musical instruments that welcome them upon entrance to the Malacañan grounds.
Marcos shared that the musicians are tasked to play a folk song from the visiting country, so that has impressed the guests because of the level of difficulty it takes to learn this unique cultural feature designed to warm the visitors' hearts.
The entertainment being provided in the gala dinner is also a chance to showcase the Philippines’ rich culture to visiting dignitaries, the President stressed.
This is why even the food served to the guests is being “carefully” curated to suit their dietary requirements and preferences.
“May mga binibigay din tayo na mga regalo sa ating mga bisita. Ito ay mga local crafts natin na mula sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa dahil napakaganda naman iyong gawang Pilipino (We also give gifts to our visitors. These are local crafts from different parts of the country because Filipino made products are truly beautiful),” he said.
These gifts are not those one finds in the mall, Marcos noted, because his team works hard to follow the “love local” campaign to benefit the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).