Manila Travel Information

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."

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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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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.

Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.

Mabini Shrine
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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)
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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 manila 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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.

Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Archdiocesan Museum of Manila
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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)
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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)
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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
manila: 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.

Tavel Time: Approximately 15 minutes.

Liwasang Bonficacio
manila: 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.

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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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