It’s easy to see Manila as a city of bumper-to-bumper cars in rush hour and overlook the pockets of charm that it exudes when the monsoon rains come. But look past its urban trappings and the vagaries of weather to experience the city’s character that provides an apt introduction to Filipino culture and heritage, and even to the people’s spontaneous warmth and willingness to go out of their way to make their visitors’ stay memorable. These 10 things to do in Manila, Philippines will make you see the city with new eyes and in a new light.
1. Retrace the footsteps of Rizal from his cell in Intramuros to his place of execution
Jose Rizal’s literary works angered the Spanish authorities that he was eventually punished for inciting rebellion with his books. He was incarcerated in what is now known as the Rizal Museum in Intramuros, and he was led from a nearby cell to his death by firing squad in what is now called the Rizal Park. He was publicly executed on December 30, 1896, an event that fueled the growing discontent of Filipinos against their colonizers.
2. Light a candle in Quiapo Church
Being a predominantly Catholic city, Manila is home to a multitude of religious festivities that culminate on January 9 when the Black Nazarene (a miraculous black image of Jesus Christ bearing a cross) of Quiapo Church is brought out for public veneration, a procession that attracts (eight) millions of the Catholic faithful. On any given day, Quiapo Church overflows with churchgoers as they hear mass or line up in front of the Black Nazarene replica to pray for miracles, healing or a better life.
3. Shop until you drop in Divisoria
Divisoria is Manila’s busiest and most crowded market district, and for good reason. Here, a penny-conscious shopper can stretch her pesos as she contemplates on a smorgasbord of retail delights that are easy on the eyes and easier on the budget.
4. Ride the jeepney
The jeepneys came to the Philippines during the American occupation, and they have become a fixture of public transport when American surplus jeeps after WWII were converted to carry civilians instead. Today, jeepneys have become part of the country’s culture as ingrained to the Filipino psyche as Catholicism (that the Spanish introduced).
5. Enjoy Ermita, night and day
Ermita is where the concentration of Manila attractions can be found. By day, you can easily fill up your itineraries by hopping from Manila Ocean Park to the Museum of the Filipino People. At night, Ermita and adjoining district Malate, light up with hedonistic delights that are sure to spark your partygoing instinct.
6. Join the Old Manila Walks
As the name suggests, this tour, operated by private individuals, is nothing short of epic. Old Manila comprises Intramuros, the 400-year old Walled City that the Spanish built on the existing site of a Tagalog village; Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world; San Miguel, the district that plays home to Malacanang Palace, the Philippine president’s office and living quarters; and Far Eastern University, home to classic Filipino art.
7. Sample Filipino cuisine and street food
Filipinos are resourceful not only in converting US Army surplus jeeps into vehicles for public transport (see jeepneys), but also in making limited ingredients go a long way. This resourcefulness, coupled with kitchen creativity, brings about culinary delights that both tickle and intrigue the palate. ‘Adobo’, ‘lechon’ and ‘bulalo’ tickle; ‘balut’ and ‘isaw’ intrigue.
8. Visit the Museum of the Filipino People
No visit to a city is ever complete without taking a holistic view of the country’s heritage and culture in one sitting, or walking. The Museum houses the skullcap of the Tabon man, the earliest human remains found in the country.
9. Laugh out loud
Filipinos are known to make light of their dire situation. Flooding in Manila or squabbles in the local polls are often made fodders of jokes onstage and off. Malate and the greater Manila area are home to some of the country’s best stand up comedians.
10. Wine and dine on board a Manila cruise
Since the Pasig River ferry service has been suspended indefinitely last year, the best way to experience Manila on water is to splurge a little and enjoy cocktails and sunset on board a cruise vessel plying the Manila Bay. Manila Bay sunsets are legendary, and a frozen margarita is perfect after a hard day’s tour.
