Manila

Manila
Name	Manila
Settlement type	Capital city
Nickname	Pearl of the Orient
Motto	"Linisin at Ikarangal ang Maynila"
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Philippines
Subdivision type1	Region
Subdivision name1	National Capital Region
Established title	Founded
Established date	June 24, 1571
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Honey Lacuna
Area total km2	42.88
Population total	1,846,513
Population as of	2020
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	Philippine Standard Time
Utc offset	+8
Coordinates	14, 35, 45, N...
Website	https://manila.gov.ph/

Manila. The capital of the Philippines, it is one of the oldest cities in the country and a major global hub for commerce, education, and culture. Strategically located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay at the mouth of the Pasig River, it forms the core of Metro Manila, the National Capital Region. The city is renowned for its vibrant blend of historic Spanish colonial architecture and modern high-rise developments.

History

The area was a significant settlement long before Spanish arrival, serving as a trading post for the Kingdom of Tondo and later the Rajahnate of Maynila. Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi established the modern city on June 24, 1571, making it the seat of the colonial government of the Spanish East Indies. It became a key node in the Manila–Acapulco Galleon Trade, linking Asia with the Americas for over two centuries. The city endured several pivotal conflicts, including the British occupation of Manila in 1762 and its near-destruction during the Battle of Manila (1945) in the closing stages of World War II. It was officially designated the capital upon the nation's independence from the United States in 1946.

Geography

The city is situated on the island of Luzon, bounded by Manila Bay to the west and the Pasig River to the south. Its terrain is generally flat, lying on alluvial deposits, which has made it prone to flooding. The city is divided into sixteen administrative districts, including the historic central area of Intramuros, the old walled city built by the Spanish. Major green spaces include Rizal Park, a national landmark, and the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden. The city's coastline along the bay is home to the Port of Manila, one of the busiest seaports in the country.

Demographics

With a population of nearly 1.85 million within its small administrative area, it is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. The populace is predominantly Tagalog, and Filipino is the most widely spoken language, with English also used extensively in government and business. Christianity is the dominant religion, with the Roman Catholic Church holding a significant influence, evidenced by landmarks like the Manila Cathedral and the Basilica of the Black Nazarene. The city also has communities of Chinese, Spanish, and American descent, reflecting its complex colonial past.

Economy

The city is the country's leading center for finance, commerce, and trade. It hosts the headquarters of major Philippine corporations like San Miguel Corporation and Bank of the Philippine Islands, as well as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Key commercial districts include the historic Binondo, considered the world's oldest Chinatown, and the modern Makati Central Business District just beyond its borders. The Port of Manila and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport serve as critical international gateways. Important economic institutions such as the Philippine Stock Exchange and the Asian Development Bank are headquartered in the metropolitan area.

Culture

Often called the cultural capital, it is home to premier national institutions like the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and the National Library of the Philippines. The city's cultural calendar is highlighted by major events such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene and the vibrant Manila Day celebrations. Its arts scene is bolstered by venues like the Metropolitan Theater and performances by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. The local cuisine is a famed fusion, with dishes like adobo and pancit originating here, and historic restaurants such as Café Adriatico operating in districts like Malate.

Government

The city is governed by the Mayor of Manila and the Manila City Council, operating under a charter provided by the Congress of the Philippines. The current mayor is Honey Lacuna. It is represented in the national legislature by its six congressional districts, each with an elected representative to the House of Representatives. The city falls under the jurisdiction of the National Capital Region Police Office and the Manila Regional Trial Court. It also hosts several national government offices, including the Supreme Court of the Philippines and the Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines.

Category:Capitals in Asia Category:Populated places established in 1571 Category:Port cities and towns in the Philippines