The former First Lady had it built in 1976. Architect Bobby Manosa designed it. Hollywood glitterati stayed in it. Royalty reveled in its luxury. The Pope declined to lodge in it.
After all these years, the COCONUT PALACE remains an iconic symbol of Philippine creativity and architectural artistry. Almost entirely constructed out of coconut lumber (aptly named Madeira Imelda) and some Philippine hardwood, the Architect made sure that it showcased the strength and versatility of the coconut. And rightly so, as the coconut tree is known as the "tree of life". Every part of the tree from its fronds to its roots have been known to serve some purpose whether aesthetically or medicinally.
Over the years, specially since the Marcos family was deposed after the EDSA I Revolution , the facility went into disrepair. The administration of the building was undertaken by the Cultural Center of the Philippines alongside other cultural spots like the National Arts Center in Makiling and other edifices in the CCP Complex. However, the CCP was never given enough budget to cover the maintenance and upkeep. So the Coconut Palace was eventually left on the back-burner so to speak.
Eventually, the management and maintenance of the Coconut Palace landed on the responsibility of the Government Service Insurance System. When P-Noy assumed the Presidency his Vice-President elect is former Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay. Having the second most important elected position in the land requires an official home and a set of offices from which to dispense the duties and services of his position.
The Coconut Palace is now the official home of the Philippine Vice-President. Well, it's about time! In other countries the vice -president does have an official address and an official home. Late in June, Vice President Binay moved into the Coconut Palace and has expressed his thanks to P-Noy for allowing the building to be converted into a working public edifice much like a governor's mansion. VP Binay is elated to have his own space from which he can more effectively serve the masses who helped put him into power. VP Binay is the first and only Filipino vice president to have an official address. His wife and former Makati Mayor Dr. Elenita Binay has offered to do the decor. Let's just hope most of the original decor is retained...
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