That dazzling chandelier isn’t crystal. It’s made of 101 coconut shells. Welcome to the Coconut Palace a true marvel in Manila.
This isn’t just any government building. The Coconut Palace or Tahanang Pilipino is a unique testament to Filipino ingenuity. It was commissioned in 1978 by Imelda Marcos. She intended it as a guesthouse. It was meant to impress Pope John Paul II during his 1981 visit. However the Pope declined to stay. He felt it was too opulent given the poverty in the Philippines.
The palace cost 37 million pesos to build. Part of the funding came from the coconut levy fund. This fund was supposed to help coconut farmers. The Coconut Palace’s construction is linked to what some call Mrs Marcos’s edifice complex. This refers to her habit of building grand structures. These were meant to show national prosperity. Ironically the palace highlights this contrast between opulence and poverty.
The Coconut Palace is built from Philippine hardwood coconut shells and Imelda Madera. This specially engineered coconut lumber adds to its unique nature. Each suite on the second floor represents a Philippine region. It displays the region’s handicrafts. The palace itself is octagonal. This shape mirrors a coconut before it’s served. The roof is designed like a traditional Filipino salakot or hat.
A highlight is the magnificent 101 coconut-shell chandelier. The dining table is equally impressive. It’s crafted from 40000 tiny pieces of inlaid coconut shells. The palace uses coconut materials extensively. This includes the roots trunk bark fruit flower and shell. The palace’s design and ornamentation mirror these elements.
Many prominent visitors have stayed at the Coconut Palace. These include Muammar al-Gaddafi Brooke Shields and George Hamilton. The Coconut Palace has also appeared in several television programs. It served as a pit stop on The Amazing Race. It was also used as a filming location for various shows.
The Coconut Palace underwent renovations. It became the official residence and office of the Vice President Jejomar Binay. In 2011 it was officially handed over to him under a lease contract. The monthly rental fee was 400000 pesos.
The Coconut Palace stands as a symbol of both Filipino creativity and the complexities of the Marcos era. It’s a structure that continues to capture attention and intrigue. Its story is one of extravagance sustainable design and a unique blend of Filipino culture and history.