MANILA CITY TRAVEL INFORMATION
Where to Stay In Manila | Hotel Discount
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Manila
is the capital city of the Philippines. But we Filipinos call Manila
"The City of Our Affections." This phrase is taken from an old Spanish
writing; but it also expresses a modern sentiment.
Manila is all things for all Filipinos. It is the seat government
administration, the fashion center, the intellectual pacesetter, the
fountainhead of all religious and educational movements; and of course,
enormous shopping arcades. It is politics and art; markets and churches;
banks and universities - the whole life.
For most Filipinos - especially those who have yet to visit Manila
- it is a political and economic summit, the city of dreams. For the
millions eking out a living in its slums and its westernized middle
classes; it is an asphalt jungle - gaudy and ruthless but irresistible.
Manila is an old city, may be older than historians can determine.
Perhaps having been around for a long time gives its "Poise and Grandeur."
Brief History | Geography
| Political Subdivision | Climate
| Population | Language |
Historical Tourist Attractions | Cultural
Tourist Attractions | Religious Tourist Attractions
|
Man-made Tourist Attractions | Festivals
Brief History
Long before the arrival of the Spaniards headed by Adelantado Governor
Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in Manila in 1571, a town called "Maynilad"
(from the word "nild") was flourish.
Pre-Spanish Maynilad was originally a Moslem settlement ruled by a
Moslem sultan, Rajah Sulayman of Borneon nobility. It was a small but
a prosperous trading port lying between two (2) great bodies of water,
Pasig river and Manila Bay.
When the Spaniards heard of this Moslem settlement on the shore of
a great bay in Luzon, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi (who at that time was
in Panay Island) sent forth his men headed by marshal Martin de Goiti
and Captain Juan de Salcedo to the first expedition to Maynilad on May
8, 1570.
Upon arrival in Maynilad, the Spanish Fleet was welcomed and feted
by the friendly Filipino-Moslem natives. However, the morning of May
24, 1570 proved to be a red day for the two races- for there was a fierce
battle; thus the Spaniards defeated the natives and conquered Maynilad
under the name of the King of Spain.
But courageous and high-spirited Filipino-Moslems who fled to nearby
Bagumbayan and Tondo didn't lose hope in fighting back the Spaniards
to retake Maynilad. On the other hand, marting de Goiti did not stay
long in Maynilad. So the following year, in 1571, Governor General Miguel
Lopez de Legazpi brought his entire force to Maynilad and for the second
time conquered Maynilad on June 24, 1571 - proclaiming it as the country's
capital and permanent seat of the Spanish government in the East.
As
a result of these successive conquests; Adelantado Governor Miguel Lopez
de Legazpi ordered the creation of a municipal government of "Cabildo",
set of Spanish style houses, monasteries, nunneries, churches and schools
- thus gave birth to "Intramuros" - the "Ever Loyal and Distinguished
City of Spain in the Orient."
Under Spain, Manila became the great entrepot in the Far East. The
Manila Acapulco Galleon Trade between Philippines and Mexico flourished
from the years 1571-1815. So from the 16th to the 19th centuries, Manila
was Intramuros.
Manila has led a far from placid existence. After Legazpi's conquests,
it was assulted by a succession of Chinese warlords, Dutch and Portugese
fleets from Indonesia, and a British Occupation Force. It then underwent
a facelift when in 1898, American signs were standing side if not totally
replacing the Spanish for the next 50 years. A four-year occupation
by the Japanese Imperial Forces followed in the forties declaring Manila
an "Open City".
Its mad culmination was the destruction of the city and its people
by bombings and killings at the close of World War II, making Manila
as one of the most heavily destroyed capitals in the world. The birth
of Philippine Independence in 1946 gave Manila the title the "Premiere
City of the Philippines."
And since Manila's most winning characteristic is its "inflappability"
- the history of Manila is the history of the Philippines.
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Geography
Manila is actually more than Manila: the metropolis of today not only
encompasses the City of Manila, but it includes seven (7) other cities
and nine (9) towns.
The City of Manila has an area of 38.3 square kilometer; it is located
on the west coast of the Philippine main island of Luzon, surrounded
by fertile plains.
The city straddles the delta of the Pasig river, a short navigable
stream that connects the fresh water lake of Laguna de Bay with Manila
Bay and South China Sea.
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Political Subdivision
The government of the City of Manila, along seven (7) other cities
and nine (9) towns, are units of an umbrella government, the Metropolitan
Manila Authority.
The city government which is under the stewardship of a Mayor with
the assistance of a Vice Mayor, along with its 36 councilors are directly
elected by the people, bringing back direct representation in the lawmaking
body of the city government. The elected officials are now partners
in governance.
The new city government, conceived by the 1986 People Power Revolution,
is tasked to undertake the programs that will bring back Manila to its
rightful place as the premiere city of the Philippines.
The present Administration is committed to a program of government
which places emphasis on the reassertion of Manila's primacy as the
nation's center of trade and commerce through an improved business and
investment climate; the efficient delivery and expansion of basic and
social services; improvement of peace and order; expansion of the city's
free educational system and health care delivery; and the maintenance
of the city government's strong financial position through intensified
revenue generation and judicious fiscal management.
So despite of its myriad of problems, city executives, councilors
and the civil servants and peace officers unite to achieve the vision
of peace and a good quality of life for its people.
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Climate
Weather condition in Manila is more or less the same as those prevailing
in other cities. Due to its lower elevation, the temperature is generally
higher, humidity and wind velocity are proportional higher.
Manila experiences the highest amount of rainfall in the months as
early as the second week of May to October. The number of storms passing
the city is the same as those prevailing in the Metro Manila area.
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Population
Manila is home and working place to nearly 2 million industrious,
charming and hospitable people; likewise the city is the haven of approximately
3 million daytime transients.
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Language
Literacy in Manila is relatively high. English spoken in the country,
particularly in the city. It is the basic language in business, government,
schools and everyday communications
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Historical Tourist Attractions
Plaza San Luis
Location: Intramuros, Manila
Named after one of the old barrios of old Intramuros, this is a cultural-cum-commercial
complex currently composed of five houses - Casa Manila, Casa Urdaneta,
Casa Blanca, Los Hidalgos and El Hogar Filipino. Plaza Ruis will eventually
consist of 9 houses representing different eras in Filipino-Hispanic
architecture. Aside from gift and specialty shops, the complex has a
museum at Casa Manila, containing late 19th century and early 20th century
furniture found in a typical Filipino illustrado or the priviledged
class home.
How to get there: From Mabini and Pedro Gil Sts., hail
a PUJ bound to the "Pier" and get off at the Bonifacio Drive intersection.
From here, Plaza San Luis is a 10 minutes walk going towards Aduana
St. As an alternative route, one can take any pier bound PUJ in Quezon
City and get off at Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes (from Manila).
Approximately an hour (from Quezon City)
Fort Santiago
Location: Intramuros, Manila
Which marks its entrance on the northwestern trip to Intramuros, started
in 1571 and completed nearly 150 years later by Filipino forced labor.
The pre Spanish settlement of Rajah Sulayman was a wooden fort on the
ashes of which was built the Spanish fortress which was Spain's major
defense position in the islands. It looked out on the sea, towards which
are canons to ward off pirates and invaders. Also known as the "Shrine
of Freedom", in memory of the heroic Filipinos imprisoned and killed
here during the Spanish and Japanes eras. Partly rebuilt from the ruins
of World War II, it is now a park and premonade housing a resident theater
company - PETA which has used ramparts, old garison and small chapel,
as theaters for both traditional and modern plays.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., walk to Mabini
or Pedro Gil Sts. and hail a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at the
Bonifacio Drive Intersection. From here, Fort Santiago is a five-minute
walk going towards Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Rizal Shrine
Location: Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila
The restored shrine inside Fort Santiago houses Rizaliana items in
memory of the Philippines' national hero. Jose Rizal spent his last
few days here before he was executed on December 30, 1896. Among the
objects exhibited are various books and manuscripts by and about the
national hero; sketches, paintings, wood carvings and sculpture done
by the hero; paraphernalia and souvenir acquired during his several
trips abroad; and a collection of colonial style furniture form his
hometown in Calamba, Laguna.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., walk to Mabini
or Pedro Gil Sts. and hail a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at the
Bonifacio Drive Intersection. From here, Fort Santiago is a five-minute
walk going towards Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Mabini Shrine
Location: Pandacan, Manila
Apolinario Mabini, the intellectual leader of the Philippine Revolution,
lived in this house as a law student, a lawyer and worker who advocated
Philippine Independence from Spain. During the American Occupation,
it was much frequented by foreign correspondents who found Mabini both
interesting and informative and became intellectual headquarters of
the first Philippine Republic.
The house was made of bamboo and nipa roof. The floors are polished
bamboo slats and the walls are sawali. It is a typical lower-middle
income family house. The pieces of furniture in the house are replicas
of the originals.
How to get there: From PWU in Taft Avenue corner Gen.
Malvar St., hail a PUJ bound for Paco and get off at the foot of the
Nagtahan Bridge. From the bridge, a short walk towards the Presidential
Security Group compound leads to the shrine.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Palacio del Gobernador
Location: Plaza Roma, Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila
Formerly the home of Manuel Estacion de Venegas, a governors' aide,
the two-story structure was expropriated and subsequently made the official
residence and office of the Spanish governor-generals in 1654 until
an earthquake brought it down in 1863. It lay in ruins for almost a
century until the Land Bank of the Philippines built an 8-storey building
on the site in 1978. The office of Intramuros Administration is presently
housed here.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., walk to Mabini
or Pedro Gil Sts. and hail a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at Bonifacio
Drive Intersection. The Palacio del Gobernador is a 15-minute walk going
towards Aduana Street. As an alternative route, hail any pier bound
PUJ in Quezon City and get off at Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Plaza Samplucan
Location: General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila
The site belonged to a Spanish merchant who became the paramour of
Governor General Alonso Fajardo's wife in 1621. Legend has it that the
house in this plaza was their trysting place, shunned as a place of
sin and and demolished after their deaths at the hands of the cuckolded
official. Tamarind trees spontaneously grew on the spot which, which
according to many, is the symbol of their bittersweet love affair.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw Kalaw St., go to Mabini
St. or Pedro Gil St. and hail any pier bound PUJ and get off at the
Bonifacio Drive intersection. The Plaza Samplaucan is a 15-minute walk
going towards Aduana St. As an alternative route, hail a pier bound
PUJ in Quezon City and get off at Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Malacañang Palace
Location: J.P. Laurel St., San Miguel, Manila
Seat of the head of Government of the Philippines since Spanish times;
officially stands on the northbank of the Pasig river whose beauty has
been said in legend and in song.
Malacañang, from the vernacular "May Lakan Diyan" meaning "There
lives a noble man," was built in the 18th century as a recreation villa
for a Spanish aristocrat Luis Rocha. In 1825, the Spanish government
bought the palace for P5, 000.00 thus turned it into a summerhouse of
governor-generals. The earthquake, which brought down the Palacio del
Gobernador in Intramuros officially designated Malacañang Palace
as the permanent seat of the Head of State.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., hail a PUJ bound
for "Quiapo". Get off at Quiapo and hail another PUJ going to "San Miguel".
Get off at the J.P. Rizal Laurel Street and proceed to gate number 6
of the palace.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Rizal Park
Location: Rizal Park, Manila
Considered as one of the largest parks in Southeast Asia. It has an
era of 58 hectares which runs from Taft Avenue up to the walls of the
famous Manila Bay.
Known as the Bagumbayan field during the Spanish era since this was
where the Filipino Moslems took refuge after the Spaniards occupied
Intramuros in 1571. It was also called "Luneta" which means which means,
"Little Moon". For 74 years, it was used as an execution ground by the
Spaniards for Filipino rebels and multineers. By 1902, Daniel Burnham,
architect and city planner chose Bagumbayan as the site of proposed
American government center. He designed a U-shaped position building,
but only three were erected. These are the Executive House, the Department
of Tourism building and the Department of Finance building.
It is acquired its present name "Rizal National Park" in dedication
to the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal whose mortal
remains were interred in the cornerstone of the Rizal Monument in 1912.
How to get there: Coming from the south of Manila, take
any Taft Avenue bound jeepney. Get off right at the park. From Quiapo,
one can take a PUJ bound fro TM Kalaw St. via Taft Avenue and get off
right at the park.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Chinese Cemetery
Location: South Gate on Aurora Avenue, Blumentritt, Manila
Founded in the mid 1850's by Lim Ong and Tan Quien Sien (Don Carlos
Palanca) to accommodate the many Chinese, who were not allowed to be
buried in Spanish cemeteries.
The cemetery covering 54 hectares has streets lined with mausoleums,
which are richly adorned with marble and wrought iron, some with strained
glass windows. Some imposing mausoleums serve the dual purpose of honoring
the dead and exhibiting the socio-economic status of the family.
The crematorium is opposite the temple. A nearby building houses ashes
on 2nd Floors and on the 3rd Floor, the bones of those who will return
to the mainland. The poor are buried in terraces to the left of the Buddhist Temple.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., proceed to Taft
Avenue anf hail a PUJ bound for "Blumentritt/Dimasalang". Get off right
in front of the SIlver Drugstore. A 15-minute walk towards the south
gate on Aurora Avenue.
Take the LRT at UN Avenue station or Pedro Gil station. Get off at
R. Papa station. The cemetery is right down from the station.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Paco Park and Cemetery
Location: Paco, Manila
Once a Spanish cemetery surrounded by a massive circular wall during
the Spanish era. Intended for the victims of the cholera epidemic niches
inside the cemetery were leased for P20.00 for three years, renewable.
When all niches were filled, remains of occupants whose leases had expired
were transferred to the ossorio to allow for new burials. The last interment
was in 1913.
Remains of Spanish governors and the elite were laid to rest in the
Chapel of San Pancratius. Today, only the remains of Governor-General
Ramon Solano are still in the chapel.
In 1996, the cemetery was declared a National Park, which makes it
a charming spot where visitors promenade.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue corner Padre Faura
Sts., hail a PUJ ato Paco and get off along Padre Faura, and take a
7-minute walk to the park.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Ermita District
Location: Ermita, Manila
Originally known as "Lagyo". In 1591, a chapel was constructed for
Nuestra Señora de Guia. A Mexican hermit arrived in the place
and lived in the chapel and people referred to it as "La Ermita".
Ermita was a fishing village prior to the arrival of the Spaniards.
When the Spaniards moved out of Intramuros, they integrated with the
Indios in Ermita and adjacent Malate and to a lesser extent, Paco. These
became fashionable residential areas in the Spanish era to the American
era.
Today, Ermita is the heart of the tourist belt area, with countless
restaurants, bars, clubs, handicraft stores and art galleries.
How to get there: Along TM Kalaw st. or Maria Orosa
St., hail a PUJ going to Mabini and get off right in Ermita.
Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
Location: General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila.
Formally opened on July 17, 1967, is the first university in the country
to have its official name in Filipino. The first and only tuition-free
institution of higher learning in the Philippines and perhaps in Asia.
It is also the first and only university funded solely by a municipal
government in the country.
How to get there: From Quiapo or from the Manila City
Hall, hail a PUJ bound Mabini. Get off at the Round Table a 2-minute
walk towards the university.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Plaza Dilao Paco District
Location: Paco, Manila
On a patch of land across the road from the Paco Post Office building,
is a statue of Japanese Feudal Lord Wukon Takayama, who was exiled to
the Philippines in 1614 because he refused to disvow his Christian beliefs.
At that time, the Spaniards referred to the Paco Area as the "Yellow
Plaza" because of the more than 3,000 Japanese who resided there. Plaza Dilao is the last vestige of the old town of Paco.
How to get there: From the PWU in Taft Avenue corner
Gen. Malvar St., hail a PUJ bound Paco and get off at the foot of Nagtahan
bridge. From the bridge, take a short 15-minute walk towards the Plaza.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
University of Sto. Thomas
Location: España, Manila
The oldest university of the Philippines and in Asia that was founded
on April 11, 1611 by Reverend Father Miguel de Benavides.
Originally opened as the College of Our Lady of the Rosary - the university
has been bestowed the title "Royal" by King Charles III of Spain 8n
1758, while Pope Leo XIII granted the title "Pontifical" in 1902.
Located originally in Intramuros, it was only transferred to its present
site in 1911. The university has 3 ecclesiastical faculties, namely:
Theology, Canon law and Philosophy. There are 12 colleges and faculties
as well.
Owned by the Spanish Dominicans which is governed by the Board of
Trustees. Until the late 19th century, the university only accepted
students of Spanish parentage. Women were first admitted in 1927.
UST campus served also as an interment camp for American, British,
Canadians and other allied nationals by the Japanese Occupation Forces
from January 1942 - February 1945. More than 10,000 people were imprisoned
although it never held more than 4,000 at one time.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., hail a PUJ for
"Fairview". Get off right in front of the university along España.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
San Miguel District
Location: San Miguel, Manila
During the 18th century, the place developed into a fashionable summer
resort area because of its nearness to the once clean and non-polluted
Pasig river. Elegant villas fringed the river, streets lined with flamed
trees, and occupants commuted by carriage going to the place.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., hail a PUJ bound
for Quiapo and take another PUJ bound to San Miguel. Get off at San
Miguel.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Isla de Convalencia (Hospicio de San Jose)
Location: San Miguel, Manila
An orphanage which was established in 1782 by Don Francisco Gomez
Enriquez and Doña Barbara Versoza in pious gratitude for Don's
recovery from illness. Now known as the Hospicio de San Jose and is
under the management of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de
Paul. The orphanage accepts "Abandoned babies and children."
How to get there: From TM Kalaw, hail a PUJ bound for
Quiapo. Get off at Quiapo. Take another PUJ going to San Miguel. Get
off halfway of the Ayala Bridge.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Pasig River
Location: Manila (a portion)
Considered as the "Cradle of Civilization" in Manila, 1 16-km. long
river. Great communities have always sprung along waterways and that
was how Maynilad must have begun.
How to get there: One can have a joyride in Pasig river
by taking the metro ferry down MacArthur bridge.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Manila Bay
Location: Manila (a portion)
Considered the finest harbor in the Far East, where the famous "Mock
Battle" took place. This was the battle between the Americans and the
Spaniards in 1898.
Many historians believed that the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade between
Philippines and Mexico thrived principally because of the strategic
location of Manila Bay. The Galleon Trade lasted for 244 years.
How to get there: One can start the tour from Rizal
Park going towards the Bay.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Escolta
Location: Escolta, Sta. Cruz, Manila
The elite shopping center during the Spanish and American regimes.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw, proceed to Taft Avenue
and hail a PUJ bound for Sta. Cruz. Get off right in front of Sta. Cruz
Church. A 5-minute walk towards Escolta. From Ma. Orosa St., hail a
PUJ going to "Divisoria". Get off at Escolta.
Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Philippine Normal University
Location: Taft Avenue corner Ayala Boulevard, Manila
The first college institution founded by the American Colonial Government
in 1903 specializing in the field of education.
How to get there: One can start from Rizal Park going
towards P. Burgos St. Cross Taft Avenue and the college is right in
front of the Executive House.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Chinatown
Location: Binondo, Manila
The Chinatown which is located along the northern bank of the historic
Pasig river symbolizes the long history of the Chinese people presence
in the Philippines; long antedating the arrival of the Spaniards. The
Chinese had been much involved in business, especially the retail trade
and have been absorbed into a Philippine life-style.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue or Ma. Orosa St.,
hail a PUJ going to "Divisoria". Get off at the "Arch of Goodwill" which
is the main gateway to Chinatown.
Travel Time: Approximately 10 to 20 minutes.
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Cultural Tourist Attractions
San Agustin Church and Museum
Location: San Agustin Monastery, Intramuros, Manila
The San Agustin Church and Museum, which is a private museum under
the supervision of the Augustinian Friars, is housed inside the Old
Monastery of the Church. The collection include 26 huge oil paintings
of saints; the DOn Luis Araneta Collection of Antique Santos; the crypt,
where Philippine notables are buried, leads to the refactory with its
fine collection of colonial religious art; the Capitualtion Room, where
the Spanish surrendered to the Americans in 1898; the Sacristy, which
houses antique carrosas, richly embroided vestments, a wonderful Saint
Michael; and the famous choir loft hand-carved from molave wood that
dates back to 1614.
How to get there: From Mabini and Pedro Gil St., hail
a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at Bonifacio Drive intersection.
The San Agustin Church Museum is a 10-minute walk towards Aduana St.
As an alternative route, one can take any pier-bound PUJ in Quezon City
and get off at Aduana St.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes (from Manila proper).
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (from Quezon City).
Casa Manila
Location: Calle Real cor. General Luna St., Intramuros,
Manila
Is a Colonial Lifestyle Museum shich is a part of Plaza San Luis Comples.
The house which is rebuilt replica of the original house that stood
on the same site was patterned after a mid-19th century house that stood
along Calle de Jaboneros in San Nicolas, Binondo.
The house features antique furniture and furnishings from China and
Europe dating back to the 19th century. Some of the famous collections
inside are the crystal chandeliers. Persian rugs, Chinese ceramics,
four-poster ebony bed, religious images, antique piano and harp, marble-top
tables, and such other items that show the luxury of the era.
How to get there: From Mabini and/or Pedro Gil Sts.,
hail a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at Bonifacio Drive Intersection.
The Casa Manila museum is a 10-minute walk towards Aduana St. As an
alternative route, take any pier-bound PUJ in Quezon City and get off
at Aduana St.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
National Museum of the Philippines
Location: Executive House, P. Burgos St., Manila
The National Musem is the official repository and guardian of the
Philippine cultural, historical and natural heritage. Created on October
4, 1901 under its old name, the Insular Museum of Ethnology, National
History and Commerce. The museum boasts of five (5) divisions, namely:
Art, Botany, Zoology, Geology and Antropology.
How to get there: From Baclaran, one can a PUJ bound
for Lawton or the Manila City Hall and get off at the corner of P. Burgos
Street along Taft Avenue. The Executive House building is a 5-minute
walk from Taft Avenue. Proceed to the second floor. From TM Kalaw St.,
proceed to the front entrance of the Department of Tourism Building
facing the skating rink. From this vantage-point, the National Museum
of the Philippines is a 5-minute walk.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Central Bank Money Museum
Location: Metropolitan Museum of Manila Building, Central
Bank Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Manila
The Central Bank Money Museum was established on January 3, 1974 from
the collection in the bank's possession and from the donations of illustrious
collectors and dealers. It aims to collect Filipino coins and notes
to trace the monetary history of the Philippines and assemble a fine
collection of rare and unusual coins from all over the world.
How to get there: From Baclaran, hail a PUJ bound for
Mabini Street and get off at the corner of Vito Cruz St. where the Central
Bank Building is situated. From TM Kalaw st., walk to Ma. Orosa St.
and hail a PUJ bound for Baclaran. Get off at Vito Cruz and walk towards
Roxas Boulevard.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Metropolitan Museum of Manila
Location: Central Bank Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Manila
The museum showcases oil and acrylic paintings done by various Filipino
and international artists. Some of its collections are borrowed on loan
from different museums abroad. These are exhibited in its three (3)
galleries: main gallery, long gallery and mezzanine gallery.
How to get there: From Baclaran, hail a PUJ bound for
Mabini Street and get off at the corner of Vito Cruz St. where the Central
Bank Building is situated. From TM Kalaw st., walk to Ma. Orosa St.
and hail a PUJ bound for Baclaran. Get off at Vito Cruz and walk towards
Roxas Boulevard.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Archdiocesan Museum of Manila
Location: Arzobispo Street, Intramuros, Manila
In 1987, HIs Eminence Jaime Cardinal Sin set up an ecclesiastical
museum with the theme, "History of the Catholic Church in the Philippines".
The collection includes ecclesiastical, liturgical and various antique
items.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., walk to Ma. Orosa
or Mabini Sts and hail any pier bound jeepney. Get off at the Bonifacio
Drive intersection. From here, walk along Aduana St. and turn towards
Arzobispo Street. The museum is a 5-minute walk from Aduana Street.
As an alternative route, one can take any pier-bound PUJ in Quezon City
and get off at Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
University of Sto. Thomas Museum of Arts and Sciences
Location: UST Main Building, España, Manila
The UST Museum is a private museum under the Board of Trustees of
the University, is considered as the largest and most extensive in the
Far East. It has 1,500,000 items in its collections which include natural
history specimens (zoological and botanical), ecclesiastical and liturgical
items most of which are in storage.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw Street or Taft Avenue,
hail a PUJ with the signboard "Fairview" or "Cubao". Get off right across
the university. One may use the overpass to reach the university. Proceed
to the main building.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
De la Salle University Art Gallery
Location: 2411 Taft Avenue, Manila
Exhibits include painting done by Filipino artists. Display may be
viewed during school days.
How to get there: From Baclaran, take any Lawton-bound
PUJ via Taft Avenue. Upon reaching Vito Cruz corner Taft Avenue, one
can get off at the bus stop across the university.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Museo ng Malacañang Palace
Location: J.P. Laurel St., San Miguel, Manila
Right after the February 1986 Revolution, a private non-profit organization
was established to help restore, preserve and develop the 200 year old
palace as a repository of Philippine artifacts and Philippine culture
hence, the creation of museum. Aside from offering museum tours, the
foundation is tasked with year round cultural programs and activities
designed to highlight historic events in Malacañang.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw Street, hail a PUJ bound
for Quiapo and take another PUJ going to San Miguel. Get off at J.P.
Rizal Street and proceed to gate number 6.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Sta. Ana Church Excavations
Location: East of Herran Street, Sta. Ana, Manila
The excavations found in Sta. Ana are enclosed in glass-sided building
for good viewing, in the courtyard of the convent. Archeological findings
found are 1,500 potteries indicating affluence, Chinese porcelains,
a number of gold-studded teeth, 200 graves with skeletons and 19 graves
containing bones of infants.
How to get there: Take the LRT at UN Avenue station
and get off at Herran or Pedro Gil Station. Hail a PUJ along Herran
St. with the sighboard "Sta. Ana" and get off right in front of the
church.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Museo Pambata (Children's Museum)
Location: Roxas Boulevard corner TM Kalaw Street, Manila
Formerly known as Elks Club and years after it was changed to Manila
Museum for the Arts (MMA). The museum was used as showcases for various
types of paintings and artifacts done by Filipino artists. Later renamed
as Museo ng Pambata under City Council Resolution No. 117, Series 1993.
Museo Pambata is composed of Six (6) theme rooms, namely: Kalikasan
(Environment), Maynila Noon (Old Manila), Tuklas (Science), Paglaki
Ko (Career Option), Katawan Ko (Body Works), and Bata sa Mundo (Children
on the Global Village).
How to get there: From TM Kalaw, walk towards Roxas
Boulevard.
Travel Time: Approximately 10 to 20 minutes.
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Religious Tourist Attractions
San Agustin Church
Location: General Luna St. corner Real St., Intramuros,
Manila
The oldest stone church in Metro Manila dates back to 1571. Intricately
carved door opens to the church of great interest are the Baroque pulpit,
molave choir stalls and an 18th century pipe organ. Like an impregnable
fortress, San Agustin has withstood the ravages of time both wrought
by nature and by man: earthquakes and typhoons, Chinese and Dutch attacks,
the British Occupation Force and the Philippine-Spanish War, Dewey's
bombardment and the bloody and destructive Japanese Occupation and the
equally devastating return of MacArthur's troops.
How to get there: From Mabini and Pedro Gil Sts., hail
a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at Bonifacio Drive Intersection.
The San Agustin Church is a 10-minite walk going towards Aduana Street.
As an alternative route, take any pier-bound PUJ in Quezon City and
get off at Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Manila Cathedral
Location: Plaza Roma, Intramuros, Manila (across Palacio
del Gobernador)
The seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila, is presently the 6th
cathedral to rise on the site since 1581. Previous structures were destroyed
by typhoons, earthquakes, fire and the last war. Rebuilt on the second
half of the 50's through the efforts of architect Fernando Ocampo and
Archbishop Rufino J. Santos. The cathedral incorporated the stone carvings
and rosette windows of the old cathedral. Stained glass windows celebrating
the Christianization of the Philippines light up with its Mosaic artworks
decorate three of its side chapels.
How to get there: From Mabini and Pedro Gil Sts., ahil
a PUJ bound for the pier and get off at Bonifacio Drive Intersection.
the Manila Cathedral is a 10-minute walk going towards Aduana St. As
an alternative route, take any pier-bound jeepney in Quezon City and
get off at Aduana Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Malate Church
Location: Malate, Manila
Built on the second half of the 18th century, this unique church with
Moslem-Baroque architecture is considered as one of the oldest churches
outside the walled city. Founded by the Augustinian Friars as a simple
stone church. Archival records show that the foundation of the Malate
Mission was under the patronage of Nuestra Señora delos Remedios.
The original image of the saints was brought from Spain in 1624 by Reverend
Father Juan Guevarra. The statue, which was destroyed during World War
II, was fashioned to its original by prominent sculptor Maximo Vicente.
The church also served as the stone fortress of the British Occupation
Force against the Spaniards in Intramuros.
How to get there: From Maria Orosa St., hail a PUJ bound
for Mabini and get off at Malate Church.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Ermita Church
Location: Ermita, Manila
The church of Ermita, which was founded in 1591 as a small chapel
has Nuestra Señora de Guia as its patroness. The saint, who was
dredged up in a fisherman's net about 400 years ago was installed as
the patron saint of Ermita by the Spaniards.
How to get there: From Ma. Orosa St., hail a PUJ bound
for Mabini. Get off at Ermita Church.
Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Paco Church
Location: Paco, Manila
Paco's Saint Pancratius Chapel, a small circular chapel, it the site
of many quiet weddings. The park around it was declared a national park
in 1966 it is a charming spot where visitors promenade.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue corner Padre Faira
St., hail a PUJ bound Paco and get off along P. Faura, and take a 7-minute
walk to the chapel.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Quiapo Church
Location: Plaza Miranda, Quiapo, Manila
Records reveal that the district of Quiapo and its church were founded
in 1586. Originally constructed of bamboo and nipa was founded by Franciscan
Missionaries headed by Pedro Bautista. Stone reconstruction of the church
followed in 1899 but was burned down in 1929. It was again rebuilt in
the 1930's and it took 3 decades to complete.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., hail a PUJ bound
for Quiapo. Get off right across Quiapo Church.
Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Santa Ana Church
The church was founded by the Franciscan Missionaries in 1578. It
was the first mission outside the walled city of Manila. The present
church and convent were built in 1720.
How to get there: Take the LRT at UN Avenue Station
and get off at Herran or Pedro Gil Station. Hail a PUJ along Herran
Street with the signboard "Sta. Ana" and get off right in front of the
church.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
San Sebastian Church
Location: Plaza del Carmen, Quiapo, Manila
This small, jewel-box church is the first all-steel church in the
Philippines and in Asia; and the second in the world. Design for the
church was finished in 1883 and was prefabricated in Belgium. The completely
knocked-down church was shipped backed to the Philippines in 6 ships.
It weighed closed to 50,000 tons while its stained-glass windows, which
are intact until now were, according to Father Ceniza, done in France.
The best time to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the church, its
towering spires and stained-glass windows, is at dusk.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., hail a PUJ bound
for Quiapo and take another PUJ going to San Miguel. Get off right after
the PUJ has come down from Ayala Bridge. A 10-minute walk going to the
church.
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Binondo Church
Location: Plaza dela Basco, Binondo, Manila
Founded by the Dominican Friars in 1596, is a fine example of Spanish
colonial architecture. The church was badly damaged during World War
II and was only restored in 1972. Only the octagonal bell tower and
some foundations remain of the original structure.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue of Ma. Orosa Sts.,
hail a PUJ bound for Divisoria. The PUJ goes straight to Binondo. Get
off right in front of the church.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Sta. Cruz Church
Location: Plaza Lacson, Sta. Cruz, Manila
The original church of Sta. Cruz was built in 1608 for the Christian-converted
Chinese by the priests of the Society of Jesus. When the Jesuits were
expelled from the Philippines, the church became Dominican. The structure
was damaged by the earthquake and then during the Battle of Manila in
1945. The present structure was rebuilt in 1957.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue, hail a PUJ bound
for Sta. Cruz. Get off right in front of the church.
Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
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Man-made Tourist Attractions
Rizal Monument
Location: Rizal Park, Manila
The 50 foot high monument was built in the early 1900's in cooperation
of then American Governor-General William Howard Taft thru the funds
raised by public subscription to honor the Philippine patriot and hero
Dr. Jose P. Rizal. Rizal's statue, which was completed in 1912, was
cast in Switzerland under the supervision of Richard Kissling; stood
on a rhombic base of solid granite blocks below an obelisk.
How to get there: From Mabini street, hail any PUJs
bound for the pier and get off at the Manila Hotel along Bonifacio Drive.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Light and Sound Sculptural Show of Jose Rizal
Location: Rizal Park, Manila (near the Rizal Monument)
The light and sound Sculptural Show of Jose P. Rizal is presented
on the same spot where Rizal was executed. This is a 30-minute modern
dramatization of the execution coupled with 10-foot-tall brass sculptures
of Rizal and the firing squad. Ed Castillo did the sculptures and the
script penned by the late film director Lamberto Avellana. The show's
purpose is to instill in present-day Filipinos and future generations
the significance of the national hero's supreme sacrifice.
How to get there: From Mabini Street, hail any PUJ bound
for the pier and get off at the Manila Hotel along Bonifacio Drive.
A 10-minute walk to the sculptural show.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Manila Zoological Garden
Location: Mabini Street corner Quirino Avenue, Malate
The Manila Zoo shelters a collection of Philippine and exotic African
wildlife. Among the varieties of animals and birds found here are the
endangered Philippine Tamaraw and the Tarsier, which both indigenous
to the Philippines.
How to get there: From United Nations Avenue corner
Taft Avenue, hail a PUJ bound for Mabini and Harrison Sts. and get off
at the right corner lot on Quirino Avenue and Mabini Street.
Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Carfel Seashell Museum
Location: 1786 Mabini Street, Ermita, Manila
Besides having the most extensive collection of the rarest seashells
found in this part of the world, the museum is one of its kind in the
Far East. Kept well inside glass panels are such rarities like Conus
Gloriamaris (Glory of the Sea) and the Cypraea Aurantium (Golden Cowry).
How to get there: From TM Kalaw St., take a Baclaran-bound
PUJ and get off along M.H. del Pilar just before reaching Malate Church.
Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Manila Hotel
Location: Rizal Park, Manila
One of the grand hotels of the Orient, the Manila Hotel was conceived
in 1907 and was inaugurated on July 4, 1912. The creation of Manila
Hotel was the result of the urban design scheme during the American
Colonial Era, thus it was intended to deliver Manila, once and for all
from the standing reproach of inhospitality to the traveler.
How to get there: From Mabini Street, hail any PUJ bound
for the pier and get off at the Manila Hotel along Bonifacio Drive.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Kanlungan ng Sining (Artist's Haven)
Location: Rizal Park, Manila
The Artist's Haven is situated in a 5,000 sq.m. of space right in
the heart of Rizal Park, is a fitting tribute to the Filipino artistic
talents. It is a haven where one can rapidly find peace and quiet or
be inspired to create a work or art amidst the dramatic exhibits of
sculptures, paintings and photographs by his peers.
How to get there: From Mabini Street, hail any PUJ bound
for the pier and get off at the Manila Hotel along Bonifacio Drive.
A 10-minute walk to the Artist's Haven.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Japanese Garden
Location: Rizal Park, Manila
The Japanese Garden Project was initiated by the National Parks Development
Committee together with the Japanese Community. The 9,000 sq.m. garden
is an authentic Japanese Garden in miniature, but one can view local
rare foliage, vines, trees, grasses, hedges and other ornamental plants
such as camias, camachile and bituin marikit which are endemic to Philippine
soil. The garden not only gives us a glimpse of Japanese culture, but
also promotes friendship and mutual understanding between the Japanese
and Filipino people.
How to get there: From Mabini Street, hail any PUJ bound
for the pier and get off at the Manila Hotel along Bonifacio Drive.
A 10-minute walk to the Japanese Garden.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Ayala Bridge
Location: San Miguel and Arroceros, Manila
First built in 1872 by Don Jacobo Zobel de Ayala of the Ayala-Roxas
Family. In 1908, during the American Colonial period, it was reconstructed
making use of steel materials, thus the first structural steel bridge
spanning Pasig River. the bridge links San Miguel District to Arroceros
District.
How to get there: From TM Kalaw Street, hail any Quiapo-bound
jeepney. Get off at Quiapo and hail another PUJ bound for San Miguel.
Get off right at the foot of the bridge. From Taft Avenue, take a Quiapo-bound
jeepney and get off at the Ayala Boulevard intersection fronting the
Philippine Senate or the Executive House. From there take a 15-minute
walk going to the bridge.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
Meban Garden
Location: Plaza Lawton, Manila (near Metropolitan Theater)
The first botanical garden in the City of Manila that was put by the
Spanish Jesuits. After centuries of being unkept, the more that 2-hectare
lost was rejuvenated. Its lawn of well-manicured bermuda grass is today
forever green. For history aficionados, the garden's special feature
is the three-century-old narra tree, which provides an enticing foreground
to the lush scenery inside the garden.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue, hail a PUJ going
to Quiapo or Sta. Cruz. Get off at Mechan Garden. Take the LRT along
Taft Avenue and get off at Arroceros Station. Take 5-minute walk towards
Mehan Garden.
Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Liwasang Bonficacio
Location: Plaza Lawton, Manila
A park dedicated to a Philippine hero, Andres Bonifacio, leader of
the Philippine Revolution of 1896 who unlike Rizal advocated armed revolution
against Spain. Within the Liwasang Bonifacio is a huge Central Fountain
Park of Manila, which was inaugurated in December 1994. This is also
the site of mass political rallies concentrating on international and
local affairs.
How to get there: From Taft Avenue, take any PUJ going
to Quiapo. Get off right at the plaza.
Travel Time: approximately 10 minutes.
Manila Ocean Park
Location: Rizal Park, Manila
The Manila Ocean Park is an oceanarium in Manila, Philippines. It is owned by China Oceanis Philippines Inc., a subsidiary of China Oceanis Inc., a Singaporean-registered firm that has operated four oceanariums in China. It is located behind the Quirino Grandstand at Rizal Park. It opened on March 1, 2008. In terms of floor space, the 8,000 square metres (86,000 sq ft) oceanarium is larger than the Sentosa Underwater World oceanarium in Singapore, and features a 25 metres (82 ft) underwater acrylic tunnel.
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Festivals
|
January 9 |
Quiapo Fiesta (Black Nazarene)
Quiapo, Manila |
|
January 15 |
Sto. Niño Fiesta (Tondo)
Tondo, Manila |
|
January 19 |
Buling-Buling ng Pandacan
Pandacan, Manila |
|
February 3 |
Liberation of Manila, Manila Chinese New Year
Binondo, Manila |
|
June 12 |
Independence Day
Rizal Park, Manila |
|
June 24 |
Araw ng Maynila (Manila Day)
Citywide Manila Film Festival |
|
November |
Feast of Nuestra Señora delos, Malate
Remedios, Manila |
|
December |
Feast of Birhen ng Loreto
Sampaloc, Manila (second Sunday) |
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Featured Hotels in Manila
|
|
G Hotel |
Hotel H2O |
|
|
|
|
|
Featured Ortigas Condominium
The Grove by Rockwell
Ortigas Center, Pasig City
New Development (Pre-Selling)
by Rockwell Land Properties
More Ortigas Condominiums
Featured Global City Condominium
Morgan Executive Suites
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
New Development (Pre-Selling)
by Megaworld Properties
More Bonifacio Global City Condominiums
Featured Makati Condominium
Edades Tower & Garden Villas
Rockwell Center Makati
New Development (Pre-Selling)
by Rockwell Land Properties
More Makati Condominiums
Other Real Estate Properties
Featured Hotels in Manila
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Microtel Inn & Hotel Manila |
Featured Hotels in Makati
|
