First Lady tours foreign envoys in Malacañan historic homes


At a glance

  • The PCO said the guided tour was part of President Marcos' commitment to "treasuring and preserving" the Philippines' history while strengthening its diplomatic ties with foreign partners.


First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led foreign ambassadors in the Philippines in a guided tour of the most historic homes inside the Malacañan compound in Manila to showcase the administration's ongoing efforts to restore and preserve the country's heritage sites.

Malacañang photo
Malacañang photo

In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said the guided tour on Feb. 20 was part of President Marcos' commitment to "treasuring and preserving" the Philippines' history while strengthening its diplomatic ties with foreign partners.

Based on the guest list, 40 foreign diplomats joined the guided tour, including Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian, Russian Ambassador Marat Pavlov, French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss, and Palestinian Ambassador Saleh Mohammad.

The diplomats were first taken to the Goldenberg Mansion, a fully refurbished home built in the 1800s by the Eugster family. While this could be privately rented, this mansion is this administration’s favored venue for cultural and art events.

The guided tour next took them inside the Teus Mansion where the ambassadors walked through exhibits showcasing the different Philippine leaders, including their triumphs and downfalls. The Teus mansion is a 19th-century home that currently houses the Presidential Museum which features priceless pieces of the country's history.

The foreign envoys next went to the Bahay Ugnayan which holds the "Road to Malacañang" exhibit which features President Marcos' milestones, particularly items used during the 2022 presidential campaign, leading to his return to the Palace.

"All three historic homes have been restored as museums, and are open to the public, free of charge," the PCO said.

Meanwhile, the foreign diplomats were also taken to see the newly restored Laperal Mansion, which is set to serve as the official Presidential Guest House for foreign heads of state or government.

The surprise visit offered the envoys a tour of the elegant European mansion infused with tropical touches.

According to the PCO, the Laperal Mansion, which it described as the "crown jewel" of the group of residences, features 14 meticulously designed bedrooms and two sun rooms named in honor of past presidents.

"[These] were done by the country’s very best artisans and designers," it said.

"This establishment embodies the Filipino’s brand of hospitality and His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s intent to strengthen and expand the Philippines’ relations with its partners in the international community," it added.

The Laperal Mansion, which is located on Arlegui Street, also has three staterooms named after Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, American military leader Douglas MacArthur, and Filipino national hero Jose Rizal— figures who are cornerstones of Philippine history.

"This collaborative effort has resulted in a revival of heritage, a showcase of local talent, and a celebration of foreign diplomacy," the PCO said.