Manila Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / November 7, 2024
Manila Then
Manila, the capital and chief city of the Philippines, is a vibrant hub of the nation’s economic, political, social, and cultural life.
The city’s Filipino name, Maynilà, translates to “where indigo is found,” derived from the phrase may-nilà.
This name references the indigo-yielding plants that were once abundant in the area, with the term “nilà” tracing its roots back to the Sanskrit word nīla, which pertains to indigo dye and various related plant species.
While indigo dye extraction only gained prominence in the region during the 18th century, long after the original settlement was established, the name Maynilà reflects the natural resources that characterized the locale.
Over time, as the city evolved and was influenced by Spanish colonization, it became known as Manila, a name that has since become synonymous with the rich history and diverse cultural landscape of the Philippines.
Manila History
The history of Manila is a rich tapestry woven from diverse cultural influences, trade relationships, and significant historical events.
In the late 16th century, Manila was a thriving walled Muslim settlement governed by a local ruler who collected customs duties from merchants navigating the Pasig River.
In 1571, Spanish conquistadors led by Miguel López de Legazpi arrived, destroyed the existing settlement, and established Intramuros, a fortified city that became the capital of the Spanish colony.
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This marked the beginning of Spanish colonial rule, which brought about a transformation of Manila into a significant center for commerce, religion, and governance.
As the city expanded beyond its walls, it linked various villages and marketplaces, facilitating further economic growth.
The introduction of Roman Catholicism was a crucial aspect of Manila’s development, spearheaded by the Augustinian friar Andrés de Urdaneta.
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Following him, various religious orders established churches, schools, and other institutions, solidifying Manila’s role as the center of Catholicism in the Philippines.
The city was officially named “Distinguished and Ever Loyal City” in 1574, reflecting its importance to the Spanish crown and the Vatican.
Throughout its history, Manila faced numerous threats from foreign powers, including invasions by the Chinese and Dutch, as well as the British occupation in 1762 during the Seven Years’ War.
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Despite these challenges, Manila emerged as a pivotal trading hub, especially after the opening of foreign trade in 1832 and the Suez Canal in 1869.
The late 19th century saw Manila become the epicenter of growing anti-colonial sentiment, culminating in the execution of national hero José Rizal in 1896, which ignited a revolution against Spanish rule.
The Spanish-American War further transformed the city, as U.S. forces defeated the Spanish fleet in Manila Bay in 1898, leading to American control and subsequent reforms.
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The U.S. period was marked by significant advancements in education, infrastructure, and economic development, establishing Manila as a key trading and tourist destination.
However, the city faced devastation during World War II when it was occupied by Japanese forces and later ravaged by battles between Japanese and American troops in 1945.
Following the war, Manila was declared the capital of the newly independent Republic of the Philippines in 1946, undergoing rapid reconstruction with American aid.
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The city continued to evolve, experiencing significant growth in the late 20th century, which transformed it into a major economic center in the Pacific region.
Yet, this growth also brought challenges such as pollution, traffic congestion, and rising terrorism.
Despite these issues, Manila’s historical significance remains profound, shaped by its ancient roots, colonial past, and ongoing evolution as a dynamic urban center.
The foundations laid by the early settlements, trading networks, and cultural exchanges continue to influence the city’s identity today.
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Manila Now
Manila, officially known as the City of Manila (Filipino: Lungsod ng Maynila), serves as the capital and the second-most populous city of the Philippines, following Quezon City.
Positioned along the eastern shore of Manila Bay on the island of Luzon, it is classified as a highly urbanized city and holds the distinction of being the most densely populated city proper in the world, with approximately 43,611.5 inhabitants per square kilometer as of 2020.
The city had a recorded population of 1,846,513 people in that year.
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Manila’s significance extends beyond its administrative boundaries, as it forms the historical core of a much larger urban area that encompasses numerous surrounding municipalities.
Designated as the first chartered city in the Philippines under Philippine Commission Act No. 183 on July 31, 1901, Manila became autonomous with the enactment of Republic Act No. 409 in 1949, known as “The Revised Charter of the City of Manila.”
Historically, Manila is considered part of the world’s original set of global cities, primarily due to its pivotal role in the galleon trade that connected Asia with the Spanish Americas.
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This trade network established an uninterrupted chain of commerce around the globe, significantly impacting the economic landscape of the region.
The city’s name, derived from “Maynilad,” references the nilad plant, which once thrived along the banks of the Pasig River.
Over time, the name was shortened to Maynila and eventually to its current form.
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In 1975, a presidential decree integrated Manila with nearby cities and municipalities to create a single administrative region known as Metropolitan Manila, or the National Capital Region (NCR).
Despite the city proper being relatively small, it plays a crucial role within this larger urban conglomeration.
Manila has served as the principal city of the Philippines for over four centuries, functioning as the center of industrial development and the country’s primary international port.
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Its location offers one of the finest sheltered harbors in the Pacific, situated approximately 700 miles southeast of Hong Kong.
Since the devastation of World War II, Manila has experienced rapid economic development and reconstruction, transforming it into a bustling metropolis.
However, the city now faces significant urban challenges, including pollution, traffic congestion, and overpopulation.
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Despite these ongoing issues, various measures have been implemented to address these problems and improve the quality of life for its residents.
With an area of about 15 square miles (38 square kilometers) for the city itself, and a broader National Capital Region covering approximately 244 square miles (633 square kilometers), Manila continues to evolve as a major urban center in Southeast Asia.
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FAQs
Manila is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and significant role in the global trade network established during the Spanish colonial period.
It is known for historical landmarks like Intramuros, Rizal Park, and numerous churches, showcasing Spanish influence, as well as its dynamic nightlife, and cuisine, and as a gateway to the Philippines’ diverse islands and natural beauty.
Manila has been referred to as the “Paris of Asia” due to its historical significance as a cultural and artistic hub in the region, particularly during the colonial era.
The nickname reflects its beautiful architecture, vibrant arts scene, and cosmopolitan lifestyle, reminiscent of Parisian elegance, along with its role as a center of education, fashion, and cuisine in Asia.
Manila is generally considered a cheap city compared to many Western capitals, offering affordable accommodation, food, and transportation options.
However, costs can vary greatly depending on lifestyle choices and specific neighborhoods, with some areas being more expensive due to their proximity to business districts and tourist attractions.
Manila is best known for its historical significance, including Spanish colonial architecture, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage.
It is also famous for its vibrant street life, delicious street food, and the lively atmosphere of areas like Intramuros, Quiapo, and Binondo (the oldest Chinatown in the world).
Additionally, Manila serves as the economic, political, and educational center of the Philippines.