Nestled within the historic grounds of Malacañang Park, Bahay Pangulo opens its doors to the public for the first time, standing as both a testament to Filipino modern design and a symbol of national heritage.
Its unveiling marks a new chapter in the story of the Philippines’ presidential residence, with architecture, design, furniture, and artworks that honor the country’s rich history and culture.
July 2022 brought devastation to the residence, as an earthquake and termites wreaked havoc on its structure. Today, Bahay Pangulo —masterfully renovated and re-envisioned by Architect Conrad Onglao—emerges as a serene sanctuary for the First Family.
“The First Lady wanted it to feel like a resort,” shares Onglao, noting that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. needed a space to unwind after the demands of public office. Surrounded by tropical plants and trees, the property now boasts open areas and walkways flanked by water fountains, and a large swimming pool, creating a tranquil, resort-like atmosphere.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos played a personal role in the redesign, meticulously selecting furniture from Pampanga, a region renowned for its craftsmanship. The result is a seamless blend of Filipino artistry and modern luxury, transforming the house into a space that is both presidential and deeply personal.
Bahay Pangulo is more than just a residence. Within the compound, several structures cater to different functions. The main residence serves as the home of the First Couple, while the Pavilion hosts meetings and gatherings. Guests are welcomed in the villa, while the gym, poolside gazebo, and personnel quarters complete the complex.
For relaxation, the family enjoys various leisure activities, including a billiard table, a Pac-Man arcade machine, and even a car race simulator—often used by Marcos' son, Vincent.
But it is in the details that Bahay Pangulo truly shines. A highlight of the dining area is "Harvest," a 1931 painting by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo, embodying Filipino history and artistry. Throughout the residence, other government-owned artworks, previously held in storage, now find a home, telling the story of the nation’s cultural heritage, including Amorsolo’s “Sunset,” Buenaventura’s “Calesa,” Fabian dela Rosa’s “Planting Rice,” among others.
A history that endures
The origins of Bahay Pangulo stretch back to the late 1930s when President Manuel L. Quezon transformed the rice fields along the Pasig River into Malacañang Park. The centerpiece for the park complex was designed by architects Juan M. Arellano and Antonio M. Toledo.
It was during the administration of President Diosdado P. Macapagal that the guest house was named Bahay Pangarap—a title it would hold through multiple presidencies.
Under President Ferdinand E. Marcos, the house became his mother’s residence and was referred to as Bahay Kubo. It was then redesigned with Filipino elements such as the pitched roof, Narra flooring, and Capiz windows by National Artist for Architecture Francisco T. Mañosa.
President Fidel V. Ramos converted Bahay Pangarap into a clubhouse, renaming it Bahay Malago. In 1996, First Lady Amelita Ramos restored the recreation hall and named it the new Bahay Pangarap, serving as an alternative place for official functions.
Later, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo renovated it further, building a new structure in a contemporary Asian style. President Benigno S. Aquino III became the first commander-in-chief to live there, followed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte, who renamed it Bahay Pagbabago.
Renamed Bahay Pangulo after its extensive renovation in 2022, the house now embodies both the past and the future of the Philippine presidency. Onglao’s masterful design ensures its longevity—flood-resistant foundations and earthquake-ready engineering safeguard the house for the next 20 to 50 years, promising that future administrations will continue to find respite within its walls.
Today, Bahay Pangulo is not merely a house—it is a living museum of Filipino culture, history, and modernity.