Parañaque City, Philippines

Parañaque is within the National Capital Region, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Parañaque City

• As of the 2020 Census, Parañaque City had a population of 689,992.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 665,822, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 3.6% over five years.
• Historically, Parañaque was inhabited by Tagalog-speaking coastal communities engaged in fishing, salt-making, and trade. The area was part of the pre-colonial Kingdom of Namayan and later became a Spanish pueblo known as Palanyag.
• The major dialect spoken today is Tagalog, with English widely used in education, government, and commerce. As in all Philippine cities, English is the official medium of instruction in schools, supporting national integration and global engagement.

Location of Parañaque City

• Parañaque City is located in the southern part of Metro Manila, bordered by Pasay to the north, Las Piñas to the south, and Muntinlupa and Taguig to the east. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.5008°N latitude and 120.9915°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 46.57 square kilometers and comprises 16 barangays. The terrain is coastal and urbanized, with a tropical climate marked by a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Parañaque City Hall is located in Barangay Don Galo, along Dr. A. Santos Avenue (formerly Sucat Road), near the Parañaque River and the Manila Bay coastline.
• Most people reach Parañaque via land and air. It is served by major roads such as SLEX, C-5 Extension, and Roxas Boulevard. The city is home to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the country’s main international gateway. The Port of Manila is approximately 10 kilometers away, accessible by road.

Tourist Attractions of Parañaque City

• Baclaran Church (National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help): A major pilgrimage site and architectural landmark, drawing thousands of devotees weekly.
• Entertainment City: A sprawling complex of integrated resorts, casinos, and luxury hotels including Okada Manila, City of Dreams, and Solaire Resort.
• PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange): A modern transport hub connecting Metro Manila to southern Luzon and Visayas.
• Elorde Sports Center: A historic boxing gym and sports facility named after Filipino boxing legend Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.
• Araw ng Parañaque: Celebrated every February 13, this annual festival features parades, concerts, and civic activities commemorating the city’s charter anniversary.

Economy of Parañaque City

• Parañaque’s economy is anchored in:
  • Tourism and hospitality: Entertainment City and NAIA drive visitor traffic and luxury development.
  • Retail and commerce: Baclaran Market, malls, and commercial centers support trade and entrepreneurship.
  • Transport and logistics: PITX, airport terminals, and expressways facilitate cargo and passenger movement.
  • Real estate and infrastructure: Mixed-use developments and residential communities continue to expand.
• Parañaque is classified as a 1st-class highly urbanized city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, its strategic location and infrastructure place it among the top contributors to Metro Manila’s economy.

Educational Institutions of Parañaque City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Parañaque City College: A city-run institution offering programs in education, business, and public service.
  • PATTS College of Aeronautics: Specializes in aviation, aeronautical engineering, and air transport management.
  • St. Andrew’s School: A Catholic institution offering basic and senior high education.
  • Olivares College: Offers programs in health sciences, business, and liberal arts.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Parañaque City

• Parañaque traces its origins to the pre-colonial settlement of Palanyag, a coastal community known for fishing and trade. The name is believed to derive from “palayag,” meaning “point of navigation,” referencing its strategic location along Manila Bay.
• The town was formally established in 1580 when Fr. Diego de Espinar, an Augustinian missionary, was appointed as its first resident priest. Spanish colonial rule introduced Christianity, governance structures, and economic systems centered on salt-making, shoemaking, and agriculture.
• During the American period, Parañaque became part of Rizal Province and later integrated into Metro Manila. The city played a role in World War II resistance and post-war reconstruction, gradually urbanizing through infrastructure and population growth.
• Parañaque was officially converted into a highly urbanized city on February 13, 1998 through Republic Act No. 8507. Today, it is known as the “Mega City by the Bay,” celebrated for its blend of heritage, commerce, and connectivity.

Elected Officials of Parañaque City

• As of the 2025 elections, Parañaque City is led by:
  • Mayor: Edwin L. Olivarez (Lakas–CMD)
  • Vice Mayor: Florencio “Benjo” Bernabe III (PFP)
  • Representative – 1st District: Eric L. Olivarez (Lakas–CMD)
  • Representative – 2nd District: Brian Raymund S. Yamsuan (NUP)
  • City Councilors:
    • District I: Raquel Gabriel, Pablo “Paolo” Olivarez, Allen Ford Tan, Daniel Eric “Toki” Baes, Brillante “Bok” Inciong, Carina Gabriel, Yeoj Marquez, Shannin Olivarez
    • District II: Jose Enrico Golez, Viktor Eriko “Wahoo” Sotto, John Ryan Yllana, Shiella Benzon, Maria Kristine Esplana, Jerome Bart “Jet” Frias, Marites “Tess” De Asis, Vincent Kenneth “Binky” Favis
• For full election results and updates, visit: Parañaque City Election Results.

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