Manila: Behind its name

Photograph from Wikipedia

The extravagant Malacanang Palace within the historical Pasig River, the prevailing Supreme Court of the Philippines which lies along the prominent Taft Avenue in Manila, and the remarkable Manila City Hall that holds the city’s administrative forces, these are some of the powerful and must-see places within the city. It dictates every little detail of the strong Republic. These infrastructures hold the entire Philippines into one democratic country that unites everyone in aiming for progress, prosperity and harmony. The influence of each and every government institution of the Philippines are well-supported by the Filipinos nowadays, as we are very proud and love our own country and the mighty city of Manila.

Last visit: August 2007

Manila Bay Sunset by ManilaMetro

Have you ever witnessed the sunset in Manila Bay along Roxas Boulevard? If not, well, you’re missing one of the most beautiful sunset view in the world. This free-of-charge enchanting site will definitely make you utter the word ‘Wow!’ Variety of food and international cuisine can be found too while walking along the boulevard. Hanging around the restaurants, hotels, coffee shops along the bay will confirm to you that the place has the most alluringly sunset in the world while having your favorite cup of either coffee or tea.

Last visit: April 2010

Manila Hotel website

Although it was built century ago, the charm and appealing beauty of its presence haven’t fade in time. The Manila Hotel has been remarkably inviting lots and lots of tourist every year. It’s accessibility to major destinations along the metro gives convenience to its guests. The overall services and features of the elegant hotel really suit the need of a budget-wise traveler to a high-profile personality. This nifty hotel still deem as one of the most well-known and in-demand hotel in the city. 

Last visit: June 2006

Casa Manila by GreatMirror.com

Built in 16^th century by Spaniards, these walls definitely exploited thousands of scrolls to save its rich history.  Starting from Spanish colonial times, which brought the Christianity and intrinsic names we are using right now, American J.I. Joes who taught us to eat hamburger and drink sodas, and Japanese invaders which introduced technology of the modern world. Architecture in the walled city is Spanish-driven designs. With few restorations, the walled city, its churches, buildings, schools, monuments, plaza, ancient homes, and statues although built decades/centuries ago but still standing firm and welcoming tourists to share the rich history it has.

Mapua Institute of Technology

I spent almost 5 years of my life in this city with my Alma Mater Mapua Institute of Technology. From here, I gathered friends, walked around the walls with them, memorized the sound warped by the Big Ben of Manila every quarter of an hour, and enjoyed every day of my college life through thick and thin. I’m thankful to this city for letting me in and experience the life it has. Indeed, a big contribution for where am I now. Well, in this city I acquired thousands of interesting facts; not only on the books that I’ve read but for the experience I will never forget for the rest of my life. 

Last visit: February 2008

Heritage sites are bounty in Manila. Fort Santiago built in Spanish era and served as defense castle. Nowadays, it’s a place to learn more about Philippine history during Spanish invasion and National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal. A small amount of entry fee will let you see the fascinating place, clean, filled with native plants and flowers, organized museum, historic footstep of Dr. Rizal and many more. Staffs are friendly and they were dressed in 19^th century aura, especially the security guards with uniforms like real Guardia Civil.

Luneta Park by TravelHouseUK

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a historical park in the heart of Metro Manila, a site where dozens of historical events in Philippine history has evolved, execution of Dr. Jose Rizal, execution of the three Filipino priests GomBurZa (Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora), a place where Philippine Independence Day celebration usually held, and many more. Km 0 can be found here in front of Rizal Monument, it is the reference for road distances on the island of Luzon and the rest of Philippines.

Pasig River is a river that connects Laguna de Bay and Manila Bay. Before the overcrowding of Manila, ferries along the Pasig River served as an important means of transport; it was the city's center for trade and economic bustle. Foreign and local traders have used the river for a long time. In early 90’s, the river has been declared biologically dead but efforts are arising to bring back its life. Local government, private institutions, and the general public are striving hard to support the project.

History is a scroll worth remembering, it is an event in past that made us where we are now, a result that need to look back to keep moving forward; and a legacy to love and give importance. Long live Manila!

Last visit: April 2010

Façade of CCP

The façade of Cultural Center of the Philippines was humbly designed by late Architect and National Artist Leandro Locsin. Behind this brilliant frontage lie the rich Philippine culture and art. World class performing arts was held in the center almost everyday. The center showcases Filipino creative works, theaters, galleries, exhibits, and many more. The amusing works of every man behind its every show is really an amazing masterpiece to witness, benefit from, and not to be missed. 

Last visit: February 2006

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This is my first time to join the monthly PTB Blog Carnival and I humbly post my piece for August 2011 with theme "Manila In Focus" hosted by Angel Juarez of Lakwatsero

  

Kindly click the PTB Blog Carnival logo below for previous carnivals