Manila

Manila, the capital and second-most populous city of the Philippines, has a population of 1,846,513 in 2020, rendering it the most densely inhabited city proper globally, with 71,263 residents per square kilometer. This lively city, located on the eastern coast of Manila Bay on Luzon Island, possesses a profound history and an active present, establishing it as a central hub of Philippine culture, business, and administration.

The story of the city starts much before it takes its current shape. A Tagalog-dominated monarchy called Maynila emerged at what is now Manila around 1258. Miguel López de Legazpi, a Spanish adventurer arriving in 1571, marked the beginning of Manila’s development into a colonial city. Legazpi started building the walled stronghold of Intramuros on the ruins of the last indigenous leader, Rajah Sulayman, at the Battle of Bangkusay. This episode not only set the city’s status as the capital of the Spanish East Indies but also started the Spanish and English name “Manila”.

Manila’s prime location made it an essential center in the first worldwide trading system. Acting as a channel in the galleon trade, it linked Asia with the Spanish Americas, therefore facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and civilizations all around the Pacific Ocean. This function confirmed Manila’s status as among the first global cities in history, therefore supporting the early stages of globalization.

Topography of the city has greatly affected its expansion. Manila, on Luzon’s western coast, boasts a sheltered harbour thought to be among the greatest in Asia. Serving as a crucial waterway essential to the growth and trade of the city, the Pasig River flows across it bifurcating it into northern and southern sections.

Manila’s geography is flat since the city rests on territory reclaimed from Manila Bay and on ancient alluvial deposits created by the Pasig River. Human activity—especially large-scale land reclamation along the waterfronts from the early to mid-twentieth century—has accentuated the natural flatness. Reflecting its historical growth and development, Manila covered 42.88 square kilometers in 2013.

The modern layout of Manila is mostly the result of American architect and urban designer Daniel Burnham, assigned in 1905 to create the new capital. Inspired by the City Beautiful movement, Burnham’s vision supported large streets and avenues running from rectangular layouts. Manila’s cityscape has been shaped by this calculated approach of urban development, therefore producing a unique fusion of colonial past and modern urban design.

As defined by Republic Act No. 409, the Revised Charter of the City of Manila, Manila is today split into fourteen city districts. This administrative division marks the growth of the city and the need of effective government for all of its several neighborhoods. Drawn from Sampaloc and Santa Ana respectively, districts like Santa Mesa and San Andres highlight the evolving urban landscape of the city.

Manila’s architectural legacy clearly captures its turbulent past. Particularly during World War II when it was destroyed by Japanese troops and subsequently bombarded by American forces, the city has sustained great damage. Many historical buildings were rebuilt under the post-war rehabilitation project, but some buildings—particularly those within Intramuros’ historic center—were permanently ruined. Manila’s current urban scene is therefore a fascinating mix of modern architecture and restored old buildings.

Globally, the city’s historical significance is recognized with ongoing projects aiming at earning UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition for the Walled City and Historic Monuments of Manila. This project emphasizes Manila’s cultural legacy’s worldwide relevance as well as its ability to attract more foreign attention and visitors.

Attracting more than one million people annually, tourism makes a major economic contribution to Manila. Notable sites include the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, Binondo (Chinatown), Ermita, Malate, Manila Zoo, National Museum Complex, and Rizal Park in addition to the old Walled City of Intramuros. These sites offer a wide range of events ranging from historical research to cultural immersion to natural beauties.

The largest urban park in Asia and a well-known symbol of national pride is Rizal Park, sometimes known as Luneta Park. Covering 58 hectares, it honors José Rizal, the national hero of the country and has the Kilometer Zero monument, the benchmark for distance travelled across the Philippines. Beyond its size, the park serves as a gathering place for Filipinos and a lush haven among the busy metropolitan scene.

Comprising 0.67 square kilometers, the Walled City of Intramuros is Manila’s historical center. Under the Intramuros Administration, it holds important sites including the 18th Century San Agustin Church, acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Manila Cathedral. Visitors can explore this area in real horse-drawn kalesas, thereby really experiencing the atmosphere of colonial Manila.

Founded in 1521, Binondo is the first Chinatown known anywhere. Featuring sites including the Binondo Church, Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch, Seng Guan Buddhist Temple, and authentic Chinese restaurants, it is still the hub of Chinese trade and culture. This area shows Manila’s varied origins and long history of global trade and cross-cultural interaction.

With about $1 billion in yearly income, Manila has been a well-known medical tourism destination recently. This growth shows how well the city can diversify its economy and make use of its medical resources. Still, challenges include the need for a more sophisticated healthcare system, improved infrastructure, and a stable political environment that call for development to adequately exploit this growing industry.