Travel: Malacanang of the North

Malacanang ti Amianan

Malacanang of the North or known as "Malacanang ti Amianan" in Ilocano was a former official residence in Ilocos Norte during the presidency of the late Ferdinand Marcos. It is also one of Ilocos Norte's tourism centerpieces

Built in 1977 on a 5-hectare property, the two-storey mansion is surrounded by lush vegetation and a magnificent view of Paoay Lake. The house was a gift from her wife, the former First Laday Imelda Marcos, during his 60th birthday.

The property was sequestered by the Philippine Government when Marcos was ousted from power in 1986. It was then given to the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte after 20 years. It underwent series of restoration and renovation headed by Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos and was converted into the Malacanang Museum in time for the late president's 95th birthday (September 11).

It was an interesting experience visiting a house this grand and full of history. They have memorabilia and history of the Marcos era spread throughout seven rooms.

Study Room

The Study Room features the former president's book collection as well as various images and memorabilia. There is also an agriculture room which contains information about Masagana 99; Diplomacy room shows his foreign and international trade relations; Nation building room shows the various infrastructure programs including buildings, airports and bridges. OFW is tribute room to Ilocano overseas workers. Culture room shows cultural renaissance which was formerly headed by the former First Lady; and Family room that shows the former First Family.

First floor living room overlooking Paoay Lake

Manila Airport scale model

Books that are part of the library

Second Floor Living Room

Malacañang ti Amianan is open from 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM daily except Mondays. Entrance fee of Php 20 for adults, Php 16 for Seniors and Php 10 for children.

Malacanang ti Amianan

Visited: December 2012
Address: Paoay Lake, Suba, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Related Links and Sources:
Wikipilipinas - http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Malaca%C3%B1ang_of_the_North
Town of Paoay - http://www.paoay.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8&Itemid=40
Philippine Information Agency - http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=331348040488