The Coconut Palace (Tahanang Pilipino) is one of the more extraordinary examples of Marcos-era excess — an entire building constructed using coconut materials to demonstrate the versatility of the coconut palm, and built specifically to impress a visiting pope who ultimately declined to use it. It sits within the CCP complex, a short walk from the main cultural centre.
The building is now used as a government guesthouse and is open for guided tours, which cover the interior's remarkable use of coconut shell inlays, woven cane ceilings, and coconut lumber panelling throughout. The craftsmanship is genuinely impressive regardless of the context; this is Philippine artisanship at a level of ambition rarely seen. Tours are available on most days; advance booking through the CCP is recommended.