More than 21,000 Filipinos flocked to Malacañang this week to attend the Simbang Gabi and view the Palace Christmas tree and lantern displays at the Kalayaan grounds.
From December 17 to 24, 2,895 attended Simbang Gabi, with many churchgoers observing the tradition and asking for blessings after two years of intermittent lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a report from the Presidential Security Group (PSG), 14,988 Filipinos visited the “Pailaw sa Kalayaan” from December 18 to 24.
Monching, one of those who attended the last day of Simbang Gabi, said the event was special to him since it was his first time to attend the Holy mass in Malacañang.
“This is the first time it happened in decades and many Presidents has passed,” Monching said in an interview with the People’s Television Network (PTV).
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made a surprise visit after the mass ended on Christmas Eve, where he waved to visitors enjoying the free delicacies such as puto bumbong, bibingka and hot chocolate drink.
Malacañang also opened its doors to ordinary Filipinos who wanted to spend their Noche Buena. Some 3,200 visitors went to the Kalayaan grounds on Christmas Day, according to the PSG.
The chief executive earlier made a surprise visit while on his way to a get-together with officials and personnel of the Radio and Television Malacañang (RTVM) on December 21.
The opening of the doors of Malacañang to the people is part of the= President’s goal to make sure that Filipino children, including those residing near the area, will have a joyful and meaningful Christmas.
In his Christmas message to the nation, President Marcos said it is imperative for everyone to emphasize the true essence of the holiday
season, which is love.
“It is this true and simple love that Christmas represents—the same one that we constantly desire and need—that allows it to be more than just a Christian tradition. Across beliefs, all the generosity and goodwill stirred in this season are welcomed,” the President said.