The Last Manilaners

I can write a long entry about last night, but I am still not over how excellent the new iWant docuseries The Last Manilaners is. It is now streaming on iWant, and I highly recommend it. It is the perfect content for us WWII enthusiasts, and you won’t be disappointed with how well-researched and rendered it is.

I was invited by my friends from the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, and I am thankful for the chance to see the series on the big screen. The Dolphy Theater was the perfect venue for the esteemed event, and it was a fitting tribute to the resilience of the Manila Jewish refugees.

Here’s to more historical events this 2020!

The author poses at the red carpet

The author with Danica Marollano, press officer

The author with Jamela Macalino of the Israeli Embassy

The Last Manilaners is now streaming on iWant

Hotel Luna

I recently stayed at the Hotel Luna with my US-based family. It was our first time at Vigan, the historical heritage town at Ilocos Sur. I was excited to visit this Hispanic city, and I was lucky to have stayed at the first and only museum hotel in the country.

Hotel Luna is located at the heart of Vigan, Ilocos Sur

I am sharing with you my favorite artworks at Hotel Luna. It was magical to stay at a hotel with paintings, sculptures, and history.

I hope that you will also visit Vigan soon!

Three Women by BenCab

Maria Makiling by Abdulmari Asia Imao

Untitled by Juvenal Sanso

Gregorio del Pilar by Abdulmari Asia Imao

Boxes and Jarlet by Arturo Luz

The author with various artworks at Hotel Luna

Martyr’s Struggle by BenCab

Laces and Roses by Louie Tolentino

Cradle of Hope in Pink by Ramon Orlina

La Mandolinera by Juan Luna y Novicio

The pool at Hotel Luna attracts city guests

The author is happy to begin her Vigan journey at Hotel Luna

Chinatown Museum

Last January 7, I explored Binondo with my friend Mitzie. We started our day with a visit to the Chinatown Museum. It is conveniently located at the fourth floor of Lucky Chinatown Mall, which is right in front of Binondo Church.

It’s proximity to the center of Chinese Catholicism means that the museum begins with a model of the Binondo Church

Binondo Church replica

Icons of Chinese-Filipino faith welcome guests to the museum

The next gallery was a rich display of trade products which went through Bindondo since the Spanish colonial period.

Chinese trade products are on display at the museum

The Manton de Manila is one of the important trade products during the Galleon Trade

Ceramics are some of the remarkable trade products that passed through Binondo

Spices are abundant in the Philippines and neighboring countries

One of the highlights of the museum is the Alcaiceria, which was the residence and trading post of Chinese transients.

The Alcaiceria, where products such as textiles and other basic needs are sold

Another highlight was the panaderia, which showcased the best of Chinese baking since the colonial period. Examples of their popular bread products are siopao and hopia, which we still enjoy today.

The panaderia shows the best of Chinese baking through the centuries

Other Chinese-Filipino trading products were displayed throughout the museum. Some of these include furniture, rum, cigars, and cigarettes.

A replica Ahtay four-poster bed highlights the exceptional design and style of the renowned furniture-maker

Sungka game

Binondo is the first financial district

Rum is one of the export products of the Chinese-Filipino community to this day

Cigars and cigarettes is one of the historical products from Binondo

The third highlight of the museum is the Esteros de Binondo, where it is shown as an island connected to mainland Manila through bridges. Surrounding it are estuaries or esteros, where trading thrived via cascos.

Cascos transports goods from Binondo to other parts of Manila, and eventually the Philippines

The museum continued to educate us guests with various products and places which made Bindondo the center of trading in the country back in the day.

The Botica shows the different Chinese herbs for sale in Binondo

More wares at the Botica

The author poses with her friend Mitzie at the model tranvia

The tranvia is an early example of public transport in Manila

Chinese cuisine is already part of Filipino culture, and many consider it to be comfort food

The author and Mitzie enjoy a day at Chinatown Museum

I enjoyed my visit, and I would recommend it to everyone! I paid Php150 for my ticket. Students are entitled to a discounted rate of Php100, while senior citizens and PWD guests can enter for Php120.

The museum is operational from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 10 in the morning until 6 in the evening.

There is a package counter onsite for guests to leave their bags and other bulky belongings.

The museum allows video and still photography, provided that flash is disabled.

For more information, please visit the their website today!

Manilakad

Yesterday, I joined the Manilakad walking tour. The experience covers Quiapo, Intramuros, and Binondo. Our tour guide, JP Ordono, has grown an organic following on Facebook based on his popular tours around Manila. His fast-paced walking tours have been known to be engaging and entertaining, and it certainly did not disappoint!

According to JP, “the objective of this tour is to prove that Manila is a safe place to walk in. It is also rich in history and culture”.

His wife Pura helps him with his tours and keeps everyone in the group together

Our tour began at San Sebastian Church, which I first toured a couple of years ago.

San Sebastian is the only gothic church in the country

It is especially beautiful when all the chandeliers are on

The church is undergoing an extensive restoration

The tour commences in front of the church

Our group was comprised of different folks who were united by our love for history and culture.

The group is a varied group of people

We all appreciated the old houses along San Sebastian Street, which used to be an elite area.

The former Monaco Consulate proudly strands along San Sebastian Street

The house remains beautiful despite its ruined state

The side of San Sebastian braves the electric wires of the modern times

Despite the challenges of dilapidation and modernity, the street remains to be a poetic souvenir from a bygone era.

San Sebastian Street is dotted with charming old homes

A few steps away is the University of the East (UE) which was my late father’s alma mater. He graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering, and commuted to this uni from his hometown of Malabon (and back) everyday.

The University of the East is the author’s late father’s alma mater

Manila is still festively lit for the holidays

Isko keeps Manila clean

Right beside UE is the Youniversity Suites, the retrofitted Laperal Apartments. It is now a hip dorm, food court, and mini mall.

The pun-ny name is evident of the crowd it caters to

The Youniversity Suites is a hip dorm and food court at University Belt.

Some of our groupmates had merienda at Binondo Lumpia House to prepare for our three-hour tour.

Binondo Lumpia House inside Youniversity Suites is known for their fresh lumpia

Manila continues to surprise with lovely details amidst its grittiness

We also passed by Bilibid Viejo, where a prison used to stand. Old houses such as this one still dot the street.

Bilibid Viejo is known to a bygone prison and its old residences

It is also known for the Pagoda Mansion, which is a distinct property in the area of esteros and colonial architecture.

The Pagoda Mansion continues to survive the modern times

This mini Nazarene inspires e faithful to continue praying

I was particularly glad to find this mini Nazarene chapel. I am a devotee of Jesus the Nazarene, and it was an honor to pray in front of this statue.

The author, herself a Nazarene devotee, prays in front of this statue of Jesus

Interestingly, the Pagoda Mansion is still visible from a few blocks away.

The Pagoda Mansion or the Ocampo Mansion, is still seen from a few blocks away

Since it was subdivided decades ago, the mansion’s extended property has since been owned by different people. However, intricate details of the original property can still be seen today.

The Pagoda or Ocampo Mansion’s extended property has since been subdivided, but its grand details are still visible

The author enjoys a light moment at the Ocampo Mansion

We passed by Hidalgo Street, where a tranvia used to pass through. It also used to be a wealthy street back in the day.

Old and new blend together at Hidalgo Street

The Paterno house is still evident of the owners’ wealth

The beautiful Padilla house is now an art gallery

No visit to Hidalgo Street is complete without a visit to Bakerite, where the tasty loaf bread was invented.

Bakerite is the home to the famous tasty bread

The author buys tasty bread to enjoy at home

Some houses along Hidalgo Street contain a courtyard

This 7-Eleven is the site of the original UP College of Fine Arts

The former Manuel L. Quezon University is still beautiful

Another home with a courtyard

This property is now home to many renters

Hidalgo Street is also home to the old Araneta mansion, which is now a parochial school.

The Nazarene Catholic School stands on the site of the original Araneta Mansion

The Aranetas originally owned this home

Ruins cannot reduce the beauty of old homes along Hidalgo Street

The tranvia line used to pass through this very street

At present, Hidalgo Street is home to apartment dwellers and Manileños.

Filipinos are really pun-ny

We then rode the jeepney to our next stop.

The author onboard a jeepney to the tour’s next stop

The jeepney ride is also the perfect break from all that walking

Our next stop was the Manila City Hall.

The Manila City Hall is an imposing presence amidst its neighboring mall

Beside it is the Arroceros Park, the last lung of Manila.

This was also the site of the Parian, the old Chinese settlement during the Spanish colonial period.

It is a beautiful evening to explore Manila

We also got to visit the Bonifacio Monument. It is now clean and free from garbage, thanks to Mayor Isko Moreno.

The Kartilya ng Katipunan

At the Bonifacio Monument

The City Hall also has a statue of Arsenio H. Lacson, who was the mayor of Manila from 1952 to 1962.

The statue of Arsenio H. Lacson is a tribute to the late colorful mayor of Manila

I was also surprised to see these historical markers which explain the importance of Manila during the Second World War.

World War II Manila historical marker

World War II Manila Historical Marker

From there, we walked to the National Museum’s exterior.

The imposing National Museum is framed by the LRT tracks and trees

The National Museum is so pretty at night

The National Museum of Anthropology

The tour continued way into the night. This was already past 9:00PM.

The group continues their tour by the National Museum’s exterior

Manila is a city that never sleeps

Manila’s energy is electric at night

Our National Museum

The author is in awe of the lighted National Museum

The Gomburza Monument

Our group continued our tour with a brief stop at Intramuros to regroup and appreciate the legacy of the colonial period.

The Bayleaf Hotel at Intramuros

The Mapua Chapel

Puerta del Parian harkens back to the Spanish colonial heritage of the Walled City

The former site of The Philippine Herald is now a Starbucks and McDonald’s

Letran

Our group walks to Lawton

Our group makes a quick stop to Lawton, where we appreciate another monument to Andres Bonifacio

Andres Bonifacio

Right behind Bonifacio’s statue is the Manila Central Office, which I toured last year.

Manila Central Post Office

And a few steps away is the Jones Bridge. It was recently restored, and the La Madre Filipina statues are currently being moved atop the bridge’s pillars.

La Madre Filipina

The gorgeous Jones Bridge

The author at Jones Bridge

The Post Office as seen from Jones Bridge

The author enjoys the lighted Jones Bridge

Our last stop was Binondo for late dinner and drinks.

Binondo promises yummy eats and lucky charms

We were taken by our guide to Ying Ying, which is open from 7:00AM to 2:00AM. It offers delicious and value for money Chinese food.

Ying Ying offers delicious Chinese food

Ying Ying also offers rice toppings which are served fast

The author enjoys dinner with tour groupmate Maria

This does not look delicious, but their beef curry rice is delicious!

I ordered their beef curry rice and a cold one for good measure. The combo was delicious!

A cold one is always a good idea

Binondo at night

It was one of the best tours I’ve ever had, and I highly recommend it! Follow Manilakad on Facebook for upcoming tour schedules. You may also contact the tour guide JP Ordona and his wife Pura on their number +63 916 359 7888 for custom private tours.

I hope that you will also walk around Manila this 2020!

Rizal Day 2019

I’m one of those Rizal die-hard fans who visit Luneta on Rizal Day. Yesterday was no exception, as I made the trip to visit my favorite hero.

This year, I hired one of the onsite photographers to take my photo by his final resting place.

As is my custom, I visited the site of his execution.

Then, I decided to date myself at the Luneta Hotel for late lunch. I wrote about this hotel in college as it is known for its French Renaissance architecture. Today, it proudly stands amidst the modern buildings of Manila.

It was the perfect setting for my solo date. I had the truffle pasta, and of course, San Miguel Pale Pilsen.

For dessert, I had the hotel’s famous sampaguita ice cream and coffee. Everything was delicious!

I feel thankful for all the blessings I have received this year. I am optimistic that the new decade will bring forth more positive energy and love for me and my family.

Happy new year!

Intramuros Sunday

Yesterday, I got to explore Intramuros in time for their open house. Most museums in the Walled City offered free entrance. I got to visit the Destileria Limtuaco Museum for the second time. I also got to drink at their tasting bar again. My favorite was their Amadeo coffee liqueur.

I also got to visit the Attic Museum. It’s a small room with trinkets from a bygone era.

Then, it was pasta for lunch at Ristorante delle Mitre. Their tre pasta di maghi was delicious and flavorful!

My last stop was Fort Santiago. Even if I frequently visit the Walled City, the fort still offers new attractions that I have never visited before. Some examples of these were this tunnel, and the baluarte facing the entrance of the fort.

My Sunday at the Walled City was eventful and full of old world charm. I will definitely be back!

Intramuros Walk

Yesterday was day 2 of my Independence Day Intramuros solo tour. After biking through the streets of the Walled City, it was time for me to visit the historical sites on foot. 

I started with Fort Santiago.  

Since I’m a Rizal fan, a visit to his shrine never gets old. 

Then, it was back to exploring the fortress.  

The Manila Cathedral had an open house which I couldn’t resist.  

I was able to explore the choir loft, roof deck, and crypt. 

Then, I visited the Desteleria Limtuaco Museum. It was my first time there and it was an enjoyable experience!

They even have a tasting bar where one can try their house liquors for a minimal fee. 

It was also my first time at the Baluarte De San Diego. 

I also walked through and above the walls of the famed city. 

It was a treat to visit the newly-opened Museo de Intramuros.  

Bahay Tsinoy was worth going back to. Their life-sized dioramas were fascinating to learn from. 

I ended my visit with coffee at the site of Padre Burgos’ old house, which is now a convenience store.  

And the best part- I was able to hang on to a tranvia! 

Life is great, if we find places to explore and discover! Sometimes, the best ones are nearby. We just have to show up and appreciate the opportunity to learn from historical places. 

Here’s to more walks along streets that have stories to tell! 

Bambiking at Intramuros

Yesterday, I had the chance to explore Intramuros after my meeting in Makati. I had the exciting opportunity to explore the walled city first by foot. 

I planned to visit the walled city for Independence Day, but I decided that one day wasn’t enough to explore it. Day 1 was all about seeing the parts which I previously did not appreciate while I was in a car.  

There were quite a number of interesting nooks and crannies to appreciate and photograph.  

My tour became much better when I rented a bambike (bamboo bike) for one hour. I got to ride through narrow streets and busy sidewalks in Intramuros. 

I got to have some cardio and have a better understanding of the historical markers scattered throughout the walled city. 

My favorite moment was reaching the site of my favorite hero Jose Rizal’s former dormitory. 

My visit ended at Bathala Bar, where I had avocado ice cream and Bayani Brew.  

This was definitely much better than my previous visits to Intramuros as I got to appreciate it more as I was walking and on a bike. I’ll definitely be back!

Quezon and Sarah G

I finally got to have my eyebrows professionally waxed at Benefit. People underestimate the power of good grooming, and having freshly trimmed eyebrows does wonders to my self-esteem. It made me feel alive again.  

I had some free time in the afternoon, so I watched Quezon’s Game in the cinema. I enjoyed the historical experience and I was moved by the film’s premise of Quezon saving more than a thousand Jews. It was a masterpiece that I hope more people will watch. 

Later that day, I went to the event that I was invited to: Sarah Geronimo’s concert and Pop Studio makeup line launch at the New Frontier Theater. 

I enjoyed the event because I am genuinely a Sarah Geronimo fan.  

I sipped some awesome cheese milk tea from Paper Moon prior to the event.  

Then, it was party time with the Popstar Royalty herself!

It was a fun night, which I ended by purchasing a lipstick from Sarah’s line. 

I chose a mauve shade that can go with my everyday looks.  

It was a privilege to watch a touching historical film and a concert in one day. Here’s to more days where I can have it all!

Escolta Walk

I spent March 30th (Vincent Van Gogh’s birthday) with a special walking tour of Escolta, Manila. Together with my helper, Racquel, I explored what was once the country’s premier business and retail district with a DIY photo walk. 

Our first stop was the Sta. Cruz Parish, which welcomes the faithful to the historical district. 

Then, it was time to visit heritage buildings and appreciate fine architectural details. 

The Regina Building and First United Building are just two of the remaining (and well-maintained) heritage buildings in the area. The latter has become particularly popular with millennials as it houses a community museum, coworking space, a cafe, bar, barbershop, indie boutiques, and offices. 

It is an intersection of our cultural origins and adaptive reuse. 

The First United Building has just turned ninety years old. 

The building hosts several events such as parties and gigs on nights and weekends.  

The community museum features the restored office of the late Sy Lian Teng, who was the building’s late owner.  

It is a testament to the man’s resilience and enduring business acumen which has influenced the building’s and Escolta’s trajectory.  

With today’s gigantic malls, it is mind boggling that our retail behavior has been largely influenced by Escolta and the building’s very own Berg’s Department Store. It sold the finest RTW for women, which at that time was a modern innovation in Southeast Asia (most women still had made-to-order clothes at that time).

The 1950’s refrigerator still works today! It is used during events in the building. 

The building has beautiful details which are rarely seen on today’s more practical structures.  

I also checked out my college friend Daniela Calumba’s store at the building’s ground floor. Her eponymous handmade jewelry and organic line of toiletries have been making waves for their handmade production process. 

I got an amulet from her partner Alaala Sala’s line of vintage accessories. 

The space is collectively known as HUB | Make:Lab.  

The place is a retail haven for objects that will delight the vintage connoisseur.  

There are stamps too from all over the world. 

As a history geek and vintage enthusiast, this building was a treasure trove for me!

We continued our walk to other parts of Escolta. 

My grandfather, who is an accountant, used to have an office at the Madrigal Building. 

We took a detour to Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world. 

We cooled down with some excellent milk tea at 80 Memories Tofu House.  

We also dropped by Binondo Church to pray for our intentions and to give thanks.  

I was fascinated with the lost graves of Bindondo, where the city’s original Chinese elite were interred. 

We also went to the Calvo Building, which houses the Escolta Museum. It is also the original site of the GMA Network. 

We made one final stop before going home. The Manila Post Office, which I have toured earlier this year, continues to remind passersby that history is everywhere, and that it can literally connect us all together. 

Escolta was once known as the Queen of Streets. With its enduring beauty and continuous significance, it remains to be an important part of our country’s rich culture. It is also a reminder for us to innovate and rise above the wars that destroy us. 

Like Escolta, we must never forget who we really are. 

Presidential Car Museum

Yesterday, I spent the day exploring my local park. But first, I began my day with a hearty brunch of gyudon and milk tea coffee (yes, it’s apparently a thing!) at a Japanese restaurant.  

Then, it was time for some culture at Quezon Memorial Circle. It was my first time at the park’s newest museum, the Presidential Car Museum. 

The imposing modern building blended nicely with the park’s existing trees.  

I was in awe of the vintage cars inside the museum.  

As a history buff, this was quite a treat! 

It was also lovely to see stamps inside the museum.  

I enjoyed my time with the presidential cars, and I was pleasantly surprised to see cute souvenirs for sale outside. 

The souvenir shop also carried NHCP publications at reasonable prices.  

For my next stop, I went to Museo ni Quezon to reacquaint myself with the founder of my city.  

I was delighted with my history trip, and it was time to have a snack. 

I chose a coconut ice drop for merienda to beat the heat. 

Coconut House inside Circle sells local products made of natural ingredients.  

Then, it was time to go home, and savor the memories from my day tour of my local park. 

Having fun doesn’t need to be expensive! Sometimes, a trip to the local park can be an educational and enjoyable experience. Hopefully, you also have nearby places where you can enjoy an afternoon of culture and history! 

Mentor and Manila

Yesterday, I dropped by UP to quickly print some documents for jobhunting.  

Then, I met up with my college mentor Mitzie for some Thai noodle soup at Sen Lek. 

We later had bubble coffee at Kape Tayo. It was good! 

We then parted ways and I proceeded to Binondo for a meeting. But first, I passed by Escolta to admire the heritage buildings there.  

I had an insightful meeting. I went home and received snail mail from The Pink Sisters Convent. 

I also got my yarn orders from The Attic Yarn and Craftery.  

And finally, I received a postcard from my good friend Nurai, who was on holiday at Cappadocia.  

I am very lucky to have few but well-meaning friends. I even have sisters who constantly pray for me. And I have a mentor who still advises me to this day. Here’s to a wiser adulthood and better decisions ahead.  

Malacañang Museum Tour and Lecture

Yesterday, I was privileged to attend the lecture on  The American Imperium in the Philippines in Text and Urban Design: The 1905 Report on Proposed Improvments in Manila by Prof. Ian Morley of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. It was held at the Malacañang Museum and Library. 

I started my day with a cuppa at Starbucks.  

Then, it was time for the lecture and tour. It was my first time at the Malacañang Palace, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I also learned heaps from the lecture. Concepts like alterity and history as futurology were discussed, and I realized that how much we appreciate and value space depends on how we prioritize our well-being.  

I will let these photos speak for themselves, as I had a wonderful day. I hope that I will be able to return to Malacañang someday.  

IDC 2018

Yesterday, I got to attend the International Design Conference of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The IDC 2018 entertaining and informative. I learned from the various panels of speakers from the creative industries, and now I am more inspired to keep on pursuing dangerous ideas in order to take risks, innovate, and disrupt my life. 

I took two P2P buses to conveniently reach the venue, the Samsung Hall at SM Aura. 

I wore Marikina-made shoes from Rob and Mara, which I purchased after trying them on for comfort. And yes, they are one of my most comfortable pairs to date! 

I had pizza for breakfast!

And a non-fat latte to perk me up.  

Then, it was time for the talks. 

For lunch, I went to Aperitif. I had the prosciutto pasta, which was mixed in a cheese wheel. For dessert, I had the ooey gooey chewy chocolate chip cookie, which truly lived up to its name.  

After getting my share of creative inspiration, I proceeded to The Pen to view the Salcedo Auctions’ preview of Important Philippine Art.  

It was moving to view the boceto for the Spoliarium, which is Juan Luna’s most prolific work.  

I am determined to keep on being creative, thanks to the IDC 2018, my sumptuous French lunch and snack, and remarkable Philippine art. I am really lucky to have these opportunities, and I look forward to similar experiences in the future. 

Rizal Park Hotel and Luneta

Yesterday, we celebrated my mom’s birthday at the Rizal Park Hotel. It was formerly the site of the Army Navy Club during the American period. Presently, it is a beautiful hotel with a sumptuous buffet at its very own Cafe Rizal. 

We enjoyed the food and the pretty ambience. I personally loved the pizza and desserts. It was also my first time to try chicken feet, and I was pleasantly surprised with its flavor. Coffee finished off our delicious meal.  

After lunch, we proceeded to Luneta to take pictures. 

I am grateful for the chance to enjoy good food and commemorate my favorite hero, Jose Rizal. I hope that there will be more opportunities for me to continue being nationalistic without having to take political sides. I simply love history and any place that will remind me of our rich heritage is definitely worth visiting. 

Museum of A History of Ideas

I have always wanted to visit UP Manila’s Museum of a History of Ideas, and last Saturday, I finally got to do so!

I was welcomed by a beautiful white building and lush greens. 

The museum traces the early beginnings of the University of the Philippines, which ushered in the beginning of secular education. It also features the modernization of medicine in the country.  

I love the clean design of the museum, and I also appreciate the continuity of theme in their souvenirs. I got this shirt to remind myself that ideas matter.  

I also found the inclusion of greenery refreshing and inspiring.  

Vintage medical equipment from the Philippine General Hospital are also found in the museum. 

The light and airy building removed the morbidity. 

I also got to watch a short video on the history of UP and PGH.  

The museum may be small, but is was full of information, artifacts, and light.  

There were also personal mementos from the first students of UP. 

Ended my visit with some photos by the stunning displays.  

I was glad to have made the trip to UP Manila for this museum experience. It was a breath of fresh air.  

Metal Health

Last Saturday, I went on a tour at the San Sebastián Minor Basilica. As a heritage conservation advocate, I am constantly on the lookout for experiences which could enable me to witness restoration efforts first-hand. Since the church is undergoing extensive restoration, I joined the tour to help support the worthwhile endeavor. 

This beautiful church is located in Quiapo, Manila. It is the first and only all-metal building in the Philippines. 

It is important to help save the basilica as it is already a part of our history. 

I was there early, so I got to roam around the church and warmed up to my beautiful surroundings.  

I also bought merch from their souvenir tent. Proceeds from the sale of their Save San Sebastián merch go to the restoration fund.  

There was no shortage of beauty in this metal wonder. 

The lighting of the chandeliers signaled the beginning of our tour.  

We began our tour by testing out the metallic surfaces on the church. I used my souvenir magnet, and yes, the basilica really is all-metal. 

This is Ysabel. She is the one-woman restoration tour guide and tech person behind the cause.  

I opened the doors and it was fascinating to see the church with awe. 

Ysabel gave us a sense of place with vintage photographs from another era.  

All the walls, columns, and ceiling panels were painted to conceal the rivets and metal parts. This church is a beautiful masterpiece in concealment.  

The restoration is being undertaken by an international team of experts in their own fields.  

As you can see, the paintings on the wall are fading fast. 

They need to be restored using the latest techniques so that the grandeur of this basilica can be preserved and brought to life. 

Our tour continued to the choir loft, where the best view of the house could be enjoyed. 

I relaxed a bit on the pews and appreciated the majestic view. 

The gothic architecture resonated with my steampunk leanings, I must admit. 

We then proceeded to the upper levels, where the concealment ends. Here, the rivets are clearly visible, and the metal parts are bare. 

Even the hidden upper levels are filled with unexpected beauty.  

I found the upper part of the ceiling beautiful. It reminded me of a ship. 

This is a sample of the restoration undertakings.  

As you can see, rust is the enemy of a metal structure. This is why it is crucial that this gem gets restored stat.  

The dome is a piece of beauty amidst the urban skyline.  

I enjoyed this, and I highly recommend that you join one of their Saturday tours! It is a chance to appreciate history, architecture, engineering, and art all in one morning. Plus, you will help support the restoration as well. 

Join the tour, take pictures, and experience Manila as it should be- with a renewed appreciation for our rich heritage. 

National Museum of Anthropology

I visited the National Museum of Natural Anthropology in Manila the other day. I had a free afternoon, and I was eager to immerse myself in culture, local textiles, and traditions. 

I am partial to local textiles, so it was a delight to see different kinds of woven masterpieces from various regions. I was also able to see the Laguna Copperplate in person for the first time. 

I am a firm believer of experiential learning. Museums make me learn more than books or documentaries because I get to appreciate artifacts and artworks in the flesh.

As always, I took photos to document my visit. I hope that they will inspire you to also visit this beautiful museum soon. Admission is free, so bring the whole family- or go there by yourself, just like I did! It’s therapeutic. 

I hope you will appreciate local cultures and traditions too this 2018!