Congratulations to barangay chairman Christopher Clark C. Quito of Barangay 539 in Sampaloc, Manila for he has done lots of good deeds for his constituents.
He is recognized for fostering a welcoming and efficient community environment. Visitors have described his barangay staff as accommodating and courteous, indicating a focus on responsive local service and effective administration.
He supported the recently concluded Christmas Food Bazaar on Calabash Road in District IV’s Zone 53 in Manila and organized gatherings noted for high levels of community support and participation, such as the Barangay 539 Christmas Party for the children. He also led the distribution of educational books for the kids.
He has shown a dedicated administrative leadership, heading the Barangay Council and collaborating with local officials to manage neighborhood improvements and support services.
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Malacanang’s “Tara sa Palasyo
After many years, I visited Malacanang’s Kalayaan Hall where I used to work as Presidential Message Writer. It gave me a big smile as I was grateful for how lovelier and more organized it is than ever before.
As I gazed at the surrounding breezy trees, the ambience soothed my inner soul as I harked to the enchanting music of Immacolada Concepcion de Malolos Chamber Singers. Malacanang’s “Tara sa Palasyo” is truly a relief that I felt I was in James Hilton’s novel.
I was fortunate to talk to Social Secretary’s Office Director Vivian C. Recio that night. She told me there were 10 award-winning choirs that had performed since the start of Simbang Gabi (Christmas dawn masses).
“Tara sa Palasyo” is a holiday initiative by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that opens the Malacañang grounds to the public for Misa de Gallo. Now in its fourth year, the Eucharistic celebration is part of the program organized by the Office of the President (OP), inviting Filipinos to experience Yuletide traditions within the historic Malacanang complex. Attendees were welcomed with traditional Filipino Christmas treats, including hot chocolate, bibingka and puto bumbong, adding warmth and flavor to the early morning celebration.
I was able to meet Fr. (LTC) Roel Arceno Isip (GSC), Malacanang’s chaplain, as I listened attentively to his Christmas message last Dec. 24.
Beyond the Masses, visitors enjoyed a host of family-friendly activities, including carnival-themed rides, film showings and a dazzling Christmas display from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. that began Dec. 16 until Dec. 23, 2025.
The “Tara sa Palasyo” program has become a hallmark of the current administration, highlighting efforts to make Malacañang more accessible to the public while promoting “Filipino culture, faith and community spirit during the holiday season.”
I would surely treasure this moment as how I remember the happy faces and smiles of the family of Jeff and Ann Plar, with their kids Raquel and Atasha, who just live at the back of a church nearby.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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