BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — This Summer Capital embraced the holiday spirit during its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the historic Baguio Mansion House on November 27.
This cherished tradition gathers the community in a celebration of hope, unity and the giving spirit of Christmas.
First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos led the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting, joined by former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos, Congressman Mauricio Domogan, and Mayor Benjie Magalong.
Adding energy to the chilly evening, Grades 2 and 3 students from Rizal Elementary School and Gibraltar Elementary School circled the Christmas Tree while receiving Christmas gifts, mostly toys.
This year’s program featured exceptional performances from the University of Baguio Voices Chorale and the Philippine Military Academy Marching Band – two distinguished Baguio institutions whose artistry reflects the national and cultural pride of the Cordillera Administrative Region.
Their participation underscores the city’s dedication to nurturing creativity, nationalism and youth excellence. Those interested in visiting the Baguio Mansion House’s Presidential Museum may book an in-depth tour on the personal lives, pivotal moments and historical contributions of each Philippine President
Built in 1908 as the summer residence of the American Governors-General, the Mansion House later became the official summer residence of Philippine Presidents beginning in the Commonwealth era.
After restoration and renovation efforts, the Mansion House was inaugurated as a Presidential Museum on September 8, 2024, enriching Baguio City with a cultural space that highlights the history of the Philippine presidency.
Today, the Baguio Mansion House operates as a public museum, welcoming visitors Tuesdays to Sundays. This past year, it also opened a Visitor’s Information Center to enhance the guest experience. Walk-in visitors may join complimentary guided tours, providing an engaging introduction to the Mansion and its role in the country’s political history.
