Steeped in history and layered in stories of power, glamour and the occasional upheaval, Malacañang Palace has been the seat of the Philippine government and designated residence of its highestranking official since the Spanish colonial era. The majestic palace that rests on the north bank of the Pasig River is also often referred to as Malacañan, the name by which it was known during the American occupation. President Ramon Magsaysay changed its official spelling to “Malacañang” in 1954. Before there was a palace, however, Spanish merchant Don Luis Rocha built a summer home in the 1700s, the first home to be constructed on the Malacañang site. Don Luis purchased a plot of land in the small town of San Miguel, far from the bustling Intramuros that was the centre of the capital city at the time, to build a holiday respite for his family. Surrounded by numerous indigenous acacia, narra and balete trees, the idyllic Rocha home faced the river yet was set just inland enough to ensure privacy from the boats traversing the waterway.
Resident Malacañang historian and presidential staff assistant Francis Louie Esquivel explains to Tatler that Rocha married Gregoria Tuason, daughter of the Chinese Son Tua, who founded the prominent Tuason family. Esquivel says, “His modern-day descendants report that he was a large, hot-tempered man who loved his afternoon siesta. One of the duties of his Indian manservant was to shush noisy boatmen plying the Pasig, warning them, ‘Malaki yan’—another version of the genesis of the Malacañang name, the phrase translating to “He’s big”, referring to the lord of the mansion.”
This story is from the May 2023 edition of Tatler Philippines.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2023 edition of Tatler Philippines.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT
More women are taking back their birthing experience and their power-by challenging the institutionalised norms surrounding childbirth, honouring the healing process and leaning on the magic of sisterhood
YOUR EXCEL LENCY
US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson gives a tour of her residence, personal life and why she loves her assignment in the Philippines
A GREAT HONOUR
For the first time, the Hispanic Society Museum and Library recognised the Philippines by awarding the Zobel de Ayala family the prestigious Sorolla Medal at its annual gala in New York
In the Long Run
Longchamp chairman and CEO Jean Cassegrain talks about championing sustainability, the value of women in the workforce, its plans for the Asian market By Maritess Garcia Reyes
LEADING LADIES
Tatler speaks to four beautiful, dynamic ladies who are more than just Senators' wives. Besides being a wife and a mother, they have their own careers and advocacies. Find out in this Tatler exclusive how they are forging their paths as well as how they are playing their part for the country
Driving Diversity
Steering towards an inclusive future, Grab Philippines Country Head Grace Vera Cruz merges diversity with digital innovation
Empowering Spaces
Audrey Go champions a new era in the construction and home furnishing industry, transforming spaces into symbols of empowerment
Global Gem
Kenneth Cobonpue continually impresses through groundbreaking work and a sincere passion to nurture tomorrow's talent
A Cut Above
During a sitdown with Tatler, Asian Institute of Management's president and dean, Jikyeong Kang, opens up about her academic and professional journey and what exactly inspires her today
Chasing Glory
The E Zobel Foundation, Inc (EZF) successfully held the 19th Enrique Zobel Memorial Polo Cup this year to honour the sport and the founder himself, Enrique Zobel.