In Case You Didn’t Know, You Can Take a Virtual Tour of Malacañan Palace's Historic Interiors
From presidential rooms to libraries
Amidst recent talks of President Rodrigo Duterte allegedly leaving the country, the administration shared a “proof-of-life” photo showing him having dinner with his family in his kitchen in Davao. But while president is known to frequent his home, Malacañan remains to be the main residence of his office where all official functions occur.
Malacañan has a rich history spanning centuries, surviving war (the State Dining Room was the only area shelled during WWII), natural disasters, and undergoing numerous extensions and renovations. It’s a tour worth looking into when you’re in the area, but as the country is in quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you can opt to take a peek into this Manila landmark from the comfort of your own home through Google’s 360 view.
A 2017 collaboration between the Presidential Museum and Library and Google Arts and Culture, the virtual tour features curated artworks and memorabilia found in Malacañan’s museum, as well as several rooms in the accessible two floors of the palace.
Here are some of the plush interiors and iconic pieces you’ll find:
The Presidential Museum Walkway is located in Kalayaan Hall and it houses memorabilia, documents, publications, and gifts from past presidencies.
The Roxas Cabinet Room was used by President Manuel A. Roxas for meetings, and became a television studio control room in the early ‘80s.
The Laurel Room served briefly as President Jose P. Laurel’s residence.
Adorning the Quirino Council State Room is a Czechoslovakian crystal chandelier which was bought by President Manuel L. Quezon in 1937.
This popular painting of President Manuel L. Quezon was done by Leon Gordon, and can be found in the Quezon Executive Office, Kalayaan Hall.
For the full tour, visit the Presidential Museum & Library online.
