Philippines · Pearl of the Orient
马尼拉 지국
Philippines
15.23M Metro (2025)
Manila Bay, Luzon
PHT (UTC+8)
Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, anchors Metro Manila—a sprawling megacity of 15.23 million people (2025) growing at 1.93% annually. Known as the "Pearl of the Orient," this historic port city blends over 400 years of Spanish colonial heritage with American influences and indigenous Filipino culture, creating a unique urban tapestry that reflects the nation's complex and fascinating history.
The economy is experiencing remarkable growth driven by tourism and services. The tourism sector alone contributes PHP 2.7 trillion (2025), representing 8.9% of GDP, while the broader Travel & Tourism sector reached a historic high of PHP 5.9 trillion (21% of GDP), supporting 11.7 million jobs (23.8% of total employment). This economic vitality positions Manila as a crucial hub in Southeast Asia's emerging markets.
Tourism continues its impressive recovery, with 5.65 million international visitors arriving from January to mid-December 2024. South Korea leads as the top source market with 1.57 million visitors generating $2.3 billion in spending, at an average of $2,073 per capita. From the walled city of Intramuros with its Spanish colonial architecture to modern shopping malls and vibrant nightlife districts, Manila offers an energetic blend of old and new that captivates visitors seeking authentic Southeast Asian experiences.
The historic walled city built by the Spanish in the late 16th century remains the oldest district and most historic core of Manila. Walking through its cobblestone streets, visitors encounter well-preserved colonial architecture, Fort Santiago (where national hero José Rizal was imprisoned), and stunning churches that survived centuries of earthquakes, wars, and typhoons.
This historic urban park honors the Philippines' national hero, Dr. José Rizal, whose execution here in 1896 helped spark the Philippine Revolution. The 58-hectare park features the Rizal Monument, beautiful gardens, fountains, and serves as a gathering place for families and a venue for national celebrations, symbolizing Filipino identity and independence.
Southeast Asia's first world-class marine theme park offers interactive exhibits featuring over 14,000 sea creatures from 277 species. The oceanarium features a 25-meter underwater tunnel, providing immersive encounters with sharks, rays, and tropical fish, while shows featuring sea lions and penguins delight visitors of all ages.
The oldest stone church in the Philippines, completed in 1607, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has survived seven major earthquakes and numerous wars. The magnificent Baroque architecture features stunning trompe-l'œil ceiling frescoes, ornate altar pieces, and a museum housing centuries of religious art and artifacts, representing the enduring Catholic heritage of the Philippines.
The Philippines' premier cultural institution comprises multiple buildings showcasing the nation's natural history, fine arts, and anthropology. The National Museum of Fine Arts houses Juan Luna's iconic "Spoliarium" and other masterworks, while the Natural History Museum displays the country's rich biodiversity and geological heritage.
One of the world's largest shopping malls, SM Mall of Asia features over 600 shops, an IMAX theater, an Olympic-sized ice skating rink, and stunning Manila Bay sunset views. The complex symbolizes modern Filipino consumer culture while serving as a major entertainment destination with concerts, events, and dining options attracting millions annually.
Manila's economy has transformed dramatically over recent decades, evolving from a port-based trading economy to a diverse metropolitan economy dominated by services. The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector has become a cornerstone, with Metro Manila hosting thousands of call centers and back-office operations for international companies, employing hundreds of thousands of Filipinos. Real estate, retail, finance, and tourism round out the economic landscape, creating a dynamic business environment despite infrastructure challenges.
The cultural identity reflects a unique fusion that sets the Philippines apart in Asia. Over 300 years of Spanish colonization left an indelible mark through Catholicism (the Philippines is Asia's largest Catholic nation), Spanish-era architecture, and cultural practices. American colonial rule (1898-1946) introduced English language dominance and Western pop culture influences. Yet beneath these layers, indigenous Filipino values like "bayanihan" (community unity) and "pakikisama" (smooth interpersonal relations) remain central to Manila's social fabric.
Manila's arts and entertainment scene thrives with a vibrant music industry, theater productions, and a growing film industry. The city's culinary landscape offers everything from authentic Filipino dishes—adobo, sinigang, lechon—to international cuisines. Nightlife ranges from rooftop bars with skyline views to live music venues featuring the Philippines' renowned musical talent. The warmth and hospitality of Manileños (Manila residents), combined with English proficiency and a service-oriented culture, create welcoming experiences for international visitors and expatriates.
Manila's history began long before Spanish colonization, serving as a thriving Malay settlement and trading center on Manila Bay. In 1571, Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi established Manila as the capital of the Spanish East Indies, transforming it into the vital western terminus of the trans-Pacific galleon trade between Manila and Acapulco, Mexico. The Spanish built Intramuros, the walled city that became the seat of colonial power, and converted the population to Catholicism, fundamentally shaping Filipino identity.
Following the Spanish-American War (1898), the Philippines became a U.S. territory, with Manila as the colonial capital. American rule brought public education, infrastructure development, and preparation for eventual independence. World War II devastated Manila—the Battle of Manila (1945) left the city second only to Warsaw in terms of wartime destruction. Post-independence (1946), Manila rebuilt and grew rapidly, though often chaotically. The People Power Revolution of 1986 on EDSA (a major Manila thoroughfare) peacefully overthrew the Marcos dictatorship, becoming an iconic moment of democratic triumph. Today, Manila continues evolving as a major Southeast Asian capital, balancing rapid development with preservation of its rich historical heritage.
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