Country | Philippines |
Population | 1846513 |
Area | 42.34 km2 (16.35 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+8 (PST) |
Coordinates | 14.6042, 120.9822 |
Highest elevation | 7.0 m (23.0 ft) |
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City Description
Manila, officially known as the City of Manila, is the capital and second-most populous city of the Philippines, after Quezon City. Located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay on the island of Luzon, Manila is classified as a highly urbanized city and is renowned for being the world’s most densely populated city proper. As of 2019, Manila’s density stood at a staggering 71,263 inhabitants per square kilometer, making it the most crowded city proper globally.
Manila’s history is rich and complex, dating back to at least 1258 when a Tagalog-fortified polity called Maynila existed in the area. The city underwent significant transformation on June 24, 1571, when Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi began constructing the walled fortification of Intramuros after defeating the last indigenous Rajah Sulayman in the Battle of Bangkusay. The name “Manila” is derived from this older settlement.
During the Spanish colonial period, Manila served as the capital of the Captaincy General of the Spanish East Indies, which included territories such as the Marianas and Guam. It was administered for the Spanish crown by Mexico City in the Viceroyalty of New Spain. Manila’s commercial networks were among the first to extend across the Pacific Ocean, connecting Asia with the Spanish Americas through the galleon trade. This established one of the earliest uninterrupted chains of trade routes circling the globe.
In modern times, “Manila” is often used to refer to the entire metropolitan area, including Metro Manila, the officially defined capital region of the Philippines. Metro Manila includes the much larger Quezon City and the Makati Central Business District. It is the most populous region in the country and one of the most populous urban areas in the world, as well as one of the wealthiest regions in Southeast Asia. The city proper had a population of 1,846,513 in 2020 and serves as the historic core of a built-up area that extends beyond its administrative boundaries.
Geographically, Manila is situated along the Pasig River, which flows through the middle of the city, dividing it into north and south sections. The city comprises 16 administrative districts and is divided into six political districts for congressional representation and the election of city council members. This geographical setting has contributed to Manila’s development as a significant urban center, with a mix of historical sites, commercial areas, and residential neighborhoods.
Culturally, Manila is a vibrant and diverse city, reflecting a blend of native Filipino, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. The city’s historic Intramuros district is a major tourist attraction, featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and museums. Other notable landmarks include Rizal Park, Binondo (the world’s oldest Chinatown), and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Manila’s economy is robust and diverse, with significant contributions from commerce, finance, tourism, and manufacturing. The city has been recognized as an “Alpha-” global city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, ranking seventh in economic performance globally and second regionally in 2018. The Global Financial Centres Index also ranks Manila 79th in the world. Despite its economic strengths, Manila faces challenges, including being the world’s second-most natural disaster-exposed city due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire and its vulnerability to typhoons, earthquakes, and floods.
The human resources in Manila are bolstered by numerous educational institutions, including the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University. These institutions produce a steady stream of skilled graduates who contribute to the city’s workforce and economic growth.
In summary, Manila is a city of contrasts, blending historical significance with modern development. Its strategic location, dense population, and vibrant culture make it a key city in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. As Manila continues to grow and evolve, it remains a dynamic and resilient metropolis, offering a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for its residents and visitors alike.
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