MANILA: Some 21,000 flocked to the grounds of Malacañang Palace in Manila the past week to participate in various Christmas activities such as to hear “Simbang Gabi” (dawn Masses) and view Christmas displays, the Presidential Security Group (PSG) said Sunday.
Data from the PSG showed 2,895 attended dawn Masses from Dec. 17 to 24 while 14,988 visited the “Pailaw sa Kalayaan” or the lighting of the giant Christmas tree and lanterns.
Some 3,200 visitors went to the Kalayaan grounds on Christmas Day, according to the PSG.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made a surprise appearance after the Christmas Eve mass while visitors enjoyed free servings of traditional delicacies puto bumbong (purple rice cake steamed in bamboo tubes), bibingka (baked rice cake wrapped in banana leaves) and hot chocolate drinks.
Malacañang opened the grounds to the public from Dec. 18 to Dec. 24 as the President wanted Filipinos, especially the children, to enjoy Christmas more.
In an interview over People’s Television Network (PTV), one of the “Simbang Gabi” attendees said it was his first time to hear Mass in Malacañang, held every 4:30 a.m. in front of Mabini Hall and with kiosks that served food and drinks after each Mass.
The grounds were open from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
“Ito ho ay first time na nangyari, na matagal na dekada na ho. At ilang presidente na ang nagdaan (This is the first time that this happened, after several decades and several Presidents),” the attendee named Monching told PTV-4.
In his Christmas message, Marcos said it is imperative for everyone to recognize love as the true essence of the holiday season.
“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,” he said.
Source: Philippines News Agency
