Manila City, Philippines

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

People of Manila City

• As of the 2020 Census, Manila City had a population of 1,846,513.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 1,780,148, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 3.7% over five years.
• Manila was historically inhabited by the Tagalog-speaking natives of the Kingdom of Maynila, ruled by Rajah Sulayman, Rajah Matanda, and Lakan Dula. The area was a thriving port and trading hub long before Spanish colonization.
• 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 Manila City

• Manila City is located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay in Luzon, within the National Capital Region (NCR). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.6042°N latitude and 120.9822°E longitude.
• It spans a land area of 24.98 square kilometers and comprises 897 barangays across 16 districts. The terrain is mostly flat and urbanized, with a tropical climate marked by a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Manila City Hall is located in Barangay 659-A, in the Ermita district, near the National Museum and Rizal Park.
• Most people reach Manila via land, air, and sea. It is served by major roads such as Roxas Boulevard, España, and Taft Avenue. The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), approximately 10 kilometers south, while the Port of Manila is one of the country’s busiest seaports, located within the city itself.

Tourist Attractions of Manila City

• Intramuros: The historic walled city built during the Spanish colonial era, featuring Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and cobblestone streets.
• Rizal Park (Luneta): A national park and monument honoring Dr. José Rizal, the country’s national hero.
• National Museum Complex: Includes the Museum of Fine Arts, Anthropology, and Natural History, showcasing Filipino heritage and creativity.
• Binondo: The world’s oldest Chinatown, known for its culinary scene and cultural fusion.
• Feast of the Black Nazarene: Held every January 9, this massive religious procession draws millions of devotees to Quiapo Church.

Economy of Manila City

• Manila’s economy is anchored in:
  • Trade and logistics: The Port of Manila is a major gateway for imports and exports.
  • Retail and commerce: Divisoria, Quiapo, and Binondo are bustling centers of trade and entrepreneurship.
  • Education and public services: Manila hosts numerous universities, hospitals, and government institutions.
  • Tourism and heritage: Historical landmarks and cultural sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
• Manila is classified as a highly urbanized city. While city-specific GDP data is not publicly disclosed, Metro Manila contributes over 36% of the national GDP, with Manila playing a central role in commerce, governance, and culture.

Educational Institutions of Manila City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of the Philippines Manila: The health sciences center of the UP System, offering medicine, nursing, and public health programs.
  • University of Santo Tomas (UST): The oldest existing university in Asia, founded in 1611, offering a wide range of academic disciplines.
  • Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM): A city-run university offering affordable and high-quality education.
  • Mapúa University: Known for engineering, architecture, and IT programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in culinary arts, electronics, and other trades.

History of Manila City

• Manila’s origins trace back to the pre-colonial Kingdom of Maynila, a fortified settlement along the Pasig River. It was a center of trade with China, India, and Southeast Asia, ruled by native leaders such as Rajah Sulayman and Rajah Matanda.
• In 1571, Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi established Manila as the capital of the Spanish East Indies. Intramuros was built as the seat of colonial power, and the city became a hub of religion, education, and governance.
• During the American period, Manila underwent modernization, including the construction of government buildings, schools, and infrastructure. It was declared a chartered city on July 31, 1901 under Act No. 183 of the Philippine Commission.
• Manila was devastated during World War II but rebuilt in the post-war years. It was designated as the capital of the Republic of the Philippines and remains the political, cultural, and historical heart of the nation.

Elected Officials of Manila City

• As of the 2025 elections, Manila City is led by:
  • Mayor: Isko Moreno Domagoso (Aksyon Demokratiko)
  • Vice Mayor: Chi Atienza (Aksyon Demokratiko)
  • Representatives:
    • District 1: Manny Lopez
    • District 2: Rolan Valeriano
    • District 3: Yul Servo
    • District 4: Edward Maceda
    • District 5: Irwin Tieng
    • District 6: Benny Abante
  • City Councilors: 36 councilors elected across six districts, including Irma Alfonso-Juson, Joaquin “JD” Domagoso, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Manila City Election Results.

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