Manila: The spirit of Christmas came alive at Malaca±ang on Tuesday as the Palace opened its grounds to families and visitors for the traditional Misa de Gallo, marking the start of the holiday season.
According to Philippines News Agency, now in its fourth year, the Eucharistic celebration is part of the 'Tara sa Palasyo' program organized by the Office of the President (OP), inviting Filipinos to experience Yuletide traditions within the historic Palace complex. The nine-day Misa de Gallo, held from Dec. 16 to 24 between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., allows the public to attend dawn Masses at Malaca±ang.
Attendees were welcomed with traditional Filipino Christmas treats, including hot chocolate, bibingka, and puto bumbong, adding warmth and flavor to the early morning celebration. Beyond the Masses, visitors can enjoy a host of family-friendly activities, including carnival-themed rides, film showings, and a dazzling Christmas display from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. until Dec. 23.
The 'Tara sa Palasyo' program has become a hallmark of the current administration, highlighting efforts to make Malaca±ang more accessible to the public while promoting Filipino culture, faith, and community spirit during the holiday season. Last year's event drew around 3,000 visitors, nearly double the turnout of the previous edition, underscoring the growing popularity of the Palace's festive tradition.
In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro noted that around 300 people attended the traditional Misa de Gallo at Malaca±ang. Castro invited the public to join the Christmas festivities at the Palace grounds. 'Damang-dama na ang diwa ng Pasko sa Palasyo kaya naman ano pang hinihintay ninyo? Tara sa Palasyo (The spirit of Christmas can truly be felt at the Palace, so what are you waiting for? Come to the Palace),' she said.
'Bilang tugon sa hangarin ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na mailapit ang diwa ng Pasko sa puso ng mga Pilipino, muling binuksan kaninang umaga ang Malaca±ang para sa iba't ibang mga aktibidad na Pamaskong handog ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. sa taumbayan (In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s desire to bring the spirit of Christmas closer to the hearts of Filipinos, Malaca±ang reopened this morning for various activities as part of the Christmas offerings from President Marcos Jr. to the public).'
