On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos spearheaded the lighting of a massive Christmas tree at The Mansion in Baguio City, enhancing the site’s appeal as a public attraction. This event marks the first time such a celebration has been held at The Mansion, which was opened to the public in September as part of the First Lady’s initiative to establish a Presidential Museum and offer guided tours.
Dina Tantoco, Deputy Social Secretary at the Office of the President, highlighted the significance of the event, noting that the nine-meter-tall tree, crafted from indigenous materials, is intended to extend the visiting hours until 8:00 p.m. The tree features 36 lanterns, part of a national parol-making contest organized in collaboration with the Department of Education, with the remaining lanterns displayed at Malacañang. These lanterns, created by high school students across the country, embody the theme ‘Heritage, Culture and Arts.’
The lighting ceremony was attended by notable figures including DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and his wife, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong, and former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos. Since its opening, the Presidential Museum has attracted an average of 4,500 visitors monthly, with around 2,500 daily visitors taking photos at the gates, transforming the once private and exclusive compound into a bustling public space.