2 Palace museums to open June 1

PALACE MUSEUMS. Malacañang is set to open two museums, the Bahay Ugnayan and the Teus Mansion, for heritage tours beginning June 1, 2023. The initiative, dubbed the Malacañang Heritage Tours, aims to showcase the life and legacies of the Philippine presidents.(Photo: Malacañang Heritage Tours/Facebook)

MANILA – Malacañang will open two museums, the Bahay Ugnayan and the Teus Mansion, for heritage tours aimed at showcasing the life and legacies of the Philippine presidents.

The public may avail of free admission to Bahay Ugnayan and Teus Mansion from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting June 1, the Presidential Communications Office announced in a Facebook post on Tuesday.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos spearheaded the Malacañang Heritage Tours, an initiative that seeks to promote the rich history of Philippine presidents and their indelible contributions to the nation, according to the Presidential News Desk (PND).

Bahay Ugnayan features Marcos’ “Road to Malacañang,” focusing on his life from his childhood to his presidency.

The museum also highlights Marcos’ childhood days when Malacañan Palace became his home during the presidency of his late father and namesake, Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.

Bahay Ugnayan also spotlights Marcos’ presidential win during the May 9, 2022 elections.

“At the Bahay Ugnayan Museum, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the life and times of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The experience provides a unique opportunity to explore the formative years of President Marcos, witness the defining moments of his tenure, and marvel at the campaign materials that paved the path to his presidency,” Malacañang said.

Visitors may also leave a message to Marcos by using the laptops displayed inside the museum.

The Teus Mansion, meanwhile, showcases the vibrant and diverse history of Philippine presidents, housing an extensive collection of priceless memorabilia.

“Within its walls, visitors can marvel at presidential attire, footwear, flags, and exquisitely sculpted busts, paying homage to our revered leaders,” the Palace said.

The Teus Mansion also dedicates a corner to the portraits of the First Ladies who played a pivotal role in shaping both the presidency and the nation as a whole.

The Teus Mansion was built by Valentin Teus for his family in the last quarter of the 19th century and restored by British designer Ronnie Laing in 1975. After its renovation, it served as a guest house during the time of Marcos Sr.

The Malacañang Heritage Tours seek to preserve the past and reshape the future by offering a comprehensive view of the Philippine presidency, tracing its roots, evolution, and impact on the nation.

Those who opt for a guided tour may make a reservation by contacting Malacañang through the e-mail address sosec@malacanang.gov.ph or telephone number (02) 8735-6080.

On May 12, Marcos signed Executive Order 26, allowing the opening of Malacañang Heritage Mansions as a “venue for special events, programs, and temporary exhibitions.”

Goldenberg Series

Apart from the Malacañang Heritage Tours, the Goldenberg Series, a cultural initiative aimed at raising awareness and celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines, was also launched.

The series serves as a “stepping stone for emerging artists and cultural practitioners,” providing them with the opportunity to showcase their talents and contribute to the preservation and promotion of the country’s cultural identity, the PND said.

“This series serves as a platform to raise awareness and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines through a variety of captivating events. From enthralling performances to enlightening exhibitions and educational programs, the Goldenberg Series showcases the richness and vibrancy of Filipino culture,” it said. “Through these activities, the series cultivates a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Philippines’ cultural heritage, both within the country and on the global stage.”

The Goldenberg Series, the Palace said, would play a vital role in ensuring the thriving cultural legacy of the Philippines in the modern world.

“It acts as a guiding beacon, inspiring future generations to embrace and cherish their cultural traditions, thus safeguarding the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage for years to come,” it said.

President Marcos also toured the Bahay Ugnayan during the ceremonial opening of the Malacañang Heritage Tours and Goldenberg Series.

In a speech, Marcos invited the public, especially the students, to visit the museums, saying they would find the tour “very interesting.”

“Now, we have turned it into a presidential museum. And it is a museum of all the presidents of the Philippines, with a short description of the circumstances that brought them to power and some of the achievements that they had during their time as president,” he said. “I am inviting everyone… to come and visit. It’s very educational definitely. It’s free.”