Marcos surprises Palace visitors

The Christmas tree at the Palace grounds has been attracting visitors who also attends the Simbang Gabi there. (Photo from an RTVM video)

President Marcos on Wednesday night surprised families visiting Malacañang’s Kalayaan Grounds to view its Christmas tree and lantern displays. The President made the surprise visit while on his way to a get-together with officials and personnel of the Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM). Mr. Marcos arrived in the area past 8 p.m., shaking hands and having his picture taken with visitors who came from nearby cities and as far as Cavite and Laguna. The public can enter the Palace grounds to view the Christmas tree and “parol” (lanterns) and attend the “Simbang Gabi,” or dawn Mass, until Dec. 24. During a gift-giving activity on Thursday morning, the President called on those who have time to visit the Palace grounds where children enjoy the view and the free treats. “You’re all welcome. The Palace is already open. It’s not my house anyway, it’s yours,” Mr. Marcos said. The President ordered the opening of the Palace grounds to the public on Dec. 18 until Dec. 24, from 7 p.m. up to 6 a.m. the following day. Traditional Simbang Gabi have been held in front of the Mabini Hall every 4:30 a.m. Those who want to visit Malacañang can enter the Palace grounds through Gate 6. —JEROME ANING