Malacañang Palace Museum

Overview

Malacañang Palace is the official residence and workplace of the President of the Philippines, situated on the banks of the Pasig River. The adjacent Malacañang Museum houses a collection of presidential memorabilia, art, and historical artifacts spanning over a century of Philippine leadership.

Highlights

• Presidential Portraits Gallery: Portraits and photographs of every Philippine president from Emilio Aguinaldo onward.
• Ceremonial Hall: The ornate reception hall where official state dinners and ceremonies are held, featuring crystal chandeliers and hardwood floors.
• Imelda Marcos Shoe Collection: A controversial but popular exhibit displaying several hundred pairs of shoes from the Marcos era.

History

Originally a summer house built in the 1750s for a Spanish aristocrat, the property was purchased by the colonial government in 1825. It has served as the official residence of every Philippine head of state — Spanish Governor-General, American Governor, Japanese Commander, and Philippine President.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visits require advance reservation — book through the Presidential Museum and Library website at least 2 weeks ahead.
• Tip 2: Closed on weekends and holidays; visits are limited to weekday mornings.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.