Manila: The Capital of the Philippines

 

Manila: The Capital of the Philippines

Manila, the capital and principal city of the Philippines, stands as the heart of the nation's economic, political, social, and cultural activities. Nestled on the island of Luzon, it stretches along the eastern shore of Manila Bay at the mouth of the Pasig River. The city's name, originally "Maynila," is derived from the "nila" plant, a flowering shrub that once grew abundantly along the riverbanks. Over time, the name evolved to "Manila," a form adopted officially in 1975 by presidential decree.

Landscape

Manila occupies the low, narrow deltaic plain of the Pasig River, which flows northwest into Manila Bay. To the north lies the swampy delta of the Pampanga River, while the Sierra Madre's southern peaks rise to the northeast and east of the urban area. Laguna de Bay, a vast lake from which the Pasig River originates, borders metropolitan Manila to the southeast. Meanwhile, the Bataan Peninsula encloses Manila Bay to the west, making the city's harbour an ideal port for its sheltered location, inland agricultural accessibility, and proximity to mainland Asia.

Climate

Manila enjoys a tropical climate, protected from severe weather by the Sierra Madre hills and the Bataan Peninsula's mountains. It experiences a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May, with the wettest months being July through September. The city receives an annual average rainfall of 2,000 mm, and temperatures typically hover around 27°C, showing little variation throughout the year.

Housing

Manila faces chronic housing shortages. Government initiatives, such as the Bagong Lipunan improvement project (1970s–1980s), aimed to provide housing for squatters, though success was limited. Resettlement projects in and around the city were also developed to alleviate the housing crisis.

Architecture

The city's architecture reflects a blend of American, Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. Notable landmarks like Rizal Park and government buildings were designed by U.S. architect Daniel H. Burnham. Modern structures, including multi-storey buildings, are commonly built with reinforced concrete. Pre-World War II Spanish-style homes with tiled roofs and thick walls remain popular, while churches exhibit American, Spanish, and European characteristics.

People

Metropolitan Manila is densely populated, housing a significant proportion of the Philippine population. Rural-to-urban migration has strained municipal services, prompting government efforts to address population density. While most residents are Filipinos, the largest foreign community is Chinese, comprising less than one-tenth of the population.

Manufacturing

Manila's diverse manufacturing activities include textile production, publishing, food processing, and chemical manufacturing. Factories are concentrated in congested areas like Tondo and Santa Cruz, while heavy industries are located in Paco, Pandacan, and Santa Ana.

Finance and Services

Manila serves as the nation's trade and finance hub. The city handles most of the Philippines' imports and exports, with financial institutions such as the Development Bank of the Philippines and the Philippine National Bank headquartered here.

Transportation

Public transport in metropolitan Manila is dominated by buses, jeepneys, and taxis. However, traffic congestion remains a serious issue, particularly during rush hours. To manage this, authorities have implemented a number-coding scheme restricting road access based on vehicle licence plate numbers.

Administration and Society

Manila is managed by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), which includes an administrative council made up of mayors and other officials. Local governance involves barangays, or neighbourhoods, which play a role in maintaining peace and order.

Health and Security

Manila boasts some of the region's best health facilities, including government-run hospitals like San Lazaro Hospital, which offers free treatment. Additionally, missionary and private hospitals serve the city's residents. Law enforcement and fire services are well-organised, and community initiatives, such as barangay brigades, help maintain security.

Education

Nearly all Manila residents over the age of 10 are literate. The city provides numerous educational opportunities through public schools, night schools, and institutions for children with disabilities. Manila is home to major universities, including the University of the Philippines and the University of Santo Tomas, the latter founded in 1611.

Cultural Life

Manila is the cultural hub of the Philippines. The Philippine Cultural Center, Folk Arts Theater, and other venues host performances. The city's many museums include the National Museum, known for its anthropological exhibits, and Fort Santiago, which preserves the works of Philippine patriot José Rizal.

History

In the late 16th century, Manila was a walled Muslim settlement governed by local rulers. Spanish conquistadors, led by Miguel López de Legazpi, destroyed the settlement in 1571, establishing the fortress city of Intramuros. Manila grew beyond its walls, with churches and marketplaces forming the heart of its development. Baptised in 1574 as "The Distinguished and Ever Loyal City," Manila became the centre of Catholicism and colonial governance in the Philippines.

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