Baguio City’s The Mansion is Undergoing Repairs and Upgrades, Says DPWH

BAGUIO CITY – The Mansion House in Baguio City, the official summer residence of the President and a cherished tourist destination, is currently undergoing a significant renovation to enhance the facility while preserving its rich historical significance. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is leading a ₱99.44 million project to modernize and improve the historic estate.

Image from Wikipedia

Current Renovation Status

The ongoing work includes essential repairs to the conference hall and the construction of a new technical inspection center. According to the most recent update, the project is approximately 51% complete, with an expected completion date of May 2025.

Director of the DPWH-Cordillera Administrative Region, Khadaffy D. Tanggol, states that these upgrades aim to maintain The Mansion’s architectural integrity while also enhancing functionality.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the renovation is the introduction of a new Presidential Museum, which will feature several installations, including galleries and other exhibits:

• Seven Galleries of the Past Presidents: These galleries will be dedicated to highlighting the contributions and legacies of the country’s past presidents. The museum’s design aims to engage and educate visitors by highlighting important historical figures and their impact on the nation.
• Draw Inspiration from the Teus Mansion: The museum will draw design and presentation elements from the successful Teus Mansion at the Malacañang Complex, known for its impressive displays of presidential memorabilia and historical exhibits.

Plans are underway to incorporate some of the successful elements from the Teus Mansion at Malacañang Complex for a rich and engaging visitor experience.

Image from DPWH

Public Announcements and Reactions

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos recently shared her excitement about the new Presidential Museum on social media back in July. In her Instagram post, she invited the public to follow the project’s progress through the government’s museum website. Her announcement has generated considerable anticipation, with many looking forward to exploring the expanded historical exhibits.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Mansion House has long been a symbol of Philippine history, serving as the president’s summer residence. The new museum aims to build on the success of the existing Presidential Museum at Teus Mansion, allowing a larger audience to learn about the nation’s presidential history.

The renovation of The Mansion House is a significant development for Baguio City’s residents and the city’s historical landscape. The introduction of a new Presidential Museum will offer Filipinos a deeper understanding of the Philippines’ presidential history. The project reflects a commitment to preserving and celebrating the nation’s heritage.

To follow the museum updates firsthand, visit museums.gov.ph.

References

DPWH. (n.d.). Baguio City’s The Mansion Under Repair, Upgrade. DPWH. https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/news/35193

Guide to the Philippines. (n.d.). Information about The Mansion. Guide to the Philippines. Retrieved August 22, 2024, from https://guidetothephilippines.ph/destinations-and-attractions/the-mansion

PNA. (n.d.). The Mansion in Baguio City under repair, upgrade: DPWH. PNA. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1231763

Sampang, D. (2024, July 20). Presidential Museum opening soon at Baguio Mansion House. Inquirer.net. Retrieved August 22, 2024, from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1963023/presidential-museum-at-baguio-mansion-house-opening-soon