THE PRESIDENT'S SANCTUARY

Renovated in 2022, the official residence of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos offers glimpses into the past and future of the Philippines' seat of power

-  Marge C Enriquez

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos's style is rooted in independence, discretion, decorum, amity, thrift, practicality, tradition and long-term thinking a refreshing perspective in a world often driven by instant gratification, consumerism and appearances. Friends who have visited her private residence describe her as a down-to-earth yet detail-oriented hostess who runs an immaculate household and entertains with grace and precision. Bahay Pangulo, the presidential residence, reflects a harmonious blend of casual living, gentility and tradition.

During a press tour, the focus was not solely on the house's architectural features. A comprehensive briefing provided historical context, placing the Bahay Pangulo within its broader historical significance.

The presidential residence is situated in Malacañang Park, originally rice fields south of Malacañang Palace across the Pasig River. During Manuel L Quezon's administration, the government acquired this land to enhance the president's security and established Malacañang Park. The initial plan envisioned a recreational retreat with three buildings: a recreation hall, a community assembly hall and a rest house offering an unobstructed view of the Palace.

A nine-hole golf course was added after Jose Laurel narrowly escaped an assassination attempt at the WackWack Golf Course. Manuel Roxas, a keen golfer, further improved the course. During Diosdado Macapagal's term, the rest house was named Bahay Pangarap. Under Ferdinand Marcos, Sr, it became the residence of his mother, Dona Josefa Edralin. Fidel Ramos and former First Lady Amelita Ramos, avid golfers, continued to enhance the club.