Manila's Highlights

By familiarizing ourselves with some of Manila’s museums, we will find that we’ve got something to talk about!

With a huge range to choose from, you may want to kill some time at our very own National Museum of the Filipino People situated at Agripina Cirle, Rizal Park. An entrance fee of P100 per person will afford precious time in this old five-floor landmark built in 1901 that houses a huge collection devoted to our very own historic background. One feature is the recovered wreck and artifacts of the Spanish galleon, the San Diego, which sank in 1600. Another is an actual Ifugao house, an Ayangan house from Mayaoyao, Ifugao. It is possible to climb inside and when I did, I was completely surprised by its extensive use of space. Do take at least two to three hours of your time to spare at this museum.

Directly across the road stands the National Art Gallery, which reopened a few years ago after some years of renovation. With an entrance fee of P70 per person, this museum is no doubt catering to the needs of huge art fanatics. Many paintings here, but one that completely stood out, making the other works of art look puny, is Filipino artist Juan Luna’s massive (13 feet tall and 23 feet wide) signature work known as the Spoliarium. You may even have to step back a bit to clearly view the whole painting! Also look out for the Retablo of Dimiao Church from Bohol, which is an intricately carved and well-preserved church altar. It is absolutely beautiful!

Our symbolic pride is the official residence of our president, Malacanang Palace. Tours of the palace and Museo ng Malacañang are possible by appointment only, but you will first have to write a letter at least five to seven days in advance addressed to Jeremy Barnes at the palace for approval.

Another sight to see is the extravagant Coconut Palace made of wood and coconut shells (this idea came from former Firsy Lady Imelda Marcos) located inside the Cultural Center of The Philippines Complex. Shaped like an octagon, this is not just your ordinary palace, but also one that features many striking Philippine creations! Tours are available from Tuesdays to Fridays at 10.00AM and 3.00PM at P100 per adult or P50 per child. The venue is also available for rent for private parties and I reckon that it makes such a pretty setting!

Taking a quick survey, I have come to realize that most of the places mentioned above are unheard of by most locals. One can be driving past some of these buildings on a daily basis but unaware of what they have to offer inside! Saddened by this thought, I decided to put this article together thinking that it is highly important introduce ourselves, most especially to the younger generation, to our very own pride and then have something to talk about!